“I imagine it must be strange,” I said, “to be marrying for the third time. Especially considering some women never marry at all.” Mrs. Penrose was silent, her steps sending pebbles skittering. “Yes,” she said, her voice unsteady. “I am aware of my good fortune.” “Did your husband have a line of work?” I asked. “Your second husband, that is.” “No,” she said. “He was a gentleman.” “And your first husband?” A flash of panic crossed her eyes and she looked away. “I would prefer not to speak of him, Mr. Gates, if you would not mind.”
