Everything in trim order for thy gallants,
mayhap. Thou hast not been at thy studies of late.--I have seen its
interior in somewhat less orderly fashion. I marvel if it might not be
pranked out for our coming. Now, to work, sir:--where does thy grubbing
begin?"
Constance posted herself in a gloomy corner, where she could watch their
proceedings almost unperceived. She hoped that in her chamber the search
would not be so strict as in situations of more likelihood and
probability for concealment. At any rate, the common feelings of
delicacy and respect,--not quite extinct, she observed, even in this
purveyor of justice,--would prevent any very exact and dangerous
scrutiny. Nor was she deceived. He merely felt round the walls, opened
the presses and closets, but did not disturb the bed furniture. He was
retiring from the search, when her father scornfully taunted him with
the ill success of his mission.
"I wonder thou hast not tumbled the bed topsy-turvy. I am glad to see
thou hast yet some grace and manners in thy vocation. Now, Sir
Messenger, to requite thee for this thy courtesy and forbearance, I will
show thee a secret tabernacle, which all thy prying has not been able to
discover.
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