The dean heard it, and disregarded it; as did also the dean's
wife--at first; and those who generally sided with the Grantlys in
the diocesan battles pooh-poohed the tidings, saying to each other
that both the archdeacon and Mrs. Grantly were very well able to take
care of their own affairs. But dripping water hollows a stone; and at
last it was admitted on all sides that there was ground for fear,--on
all sides, except at Plumstead.
"I am sure there is nothing in it; I really am sure of it," said Mrs.
Arabin, whispering to her sister; "but after turning it over in my
mind, I thought it right to tell you. And yet I don't know now but I
am wrong."
"Quite right, dearest Eleanor," said Mrs. Grantly. "And I am much
obliged to you. But we understand it, you know. It comes, of course,
like all other Christian blessings, from the palace." And then there
was nothing more said about it between Mrs. Grantly and her sister.
But on the following morning there arrived a letter by post,
addressed to Mrs. Grantly, bearing the postmark of Littlebath. The
letter ran:--
MADAM,--
It is known to the writer that Lord Dumbello has arranged
with certain friends how he may escape from his present
engagement. I think, therefore, that it is my duty as a
Christian to warn you of this.
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