Elinor closed her eyes for a pregnant moment. ‘Yes, Nicky, I do realise that,’ she said. ‘And since I have not the least desire that he should repeat his visit I wish you will secure that door!’ ‘Well, I am by no means certain that that is what we should do,’ he said, frowning. ‘The more I think of it the more I’m persuaded there is something dashed smoky about the business. Only consider, cousin! A man who must needs come creeping into a house by a secret stair can be up to no good!’ ‘Very true. There is a want of openness about such behaviour that strikes one forcibly, and makes me at least
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