This dialogue was held in a low tone in the locksmith's little parlour,
into which honest Gabriel had shown his visitor on his arrival. Mr
Haredale had called upon him to entreat his company to the widow's, that
he might have the assistance of his persuasion and influence; and out of
this circumstance the conversation had arisen.
'I forbore,' said Gabriel, 'from repeating one word of this to anybody,
as it could do her no good and might do her great harm. I thought and
hoped, to say the truth, that she would come to me, and talk to me about
it, and tell me how it was; but though I have purposely put myself
in her way more than once or twice, she has never touched upon the
subject--except by a look. And indeed,' said the good-natured locksmith,
'there was a good deal in the look, more than could have been put into a
great many words. It said among other matters "Don't ask me anything"
so imploringly, that I didn't ask her anything. You'll think me an old
fool, I know, sir. If it's any relief to call me one, pray do.'
'I am greatly disturbed by what you tell me,' said Mr Haredale, after a
silence. 'What meaning do you attach to it?'
The locksmith shook his head, and looked doubtfully out of window at the
failing light.
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