olution of mine at the time I
first read the Report of my husband's Trial. I mean the resolution--if
Miserrimus Dexter failed me--to apply to one of the two agents
(or solicitors, as we should term them) who had prepared Eustace's
defense--namely, Mr. Playmore. This gentleman, it may be remembered,
had especially recommended himself to my confidence by his friendly
interference when the sheriff's officers were in search of my husband's
papers. Referring back to the evidence Of "Isaiah Schoolcraft," I found
that Mr. Playmore had been called in to assist and advise Eustace by
Miserrimus Dexter. He was therefore not only a friend on whom I might
rely, but a friend who was personally acquainted with Dexter as well.
Could there be a fitter man to apply to for enlightenment in the
darkness that had now gathered around me? Benjamin, when I put the
question to him, acknowledged that I had made a sensible choice on this
occasion, and at once exerted himself to help me. He discovered (through
his own lawyer) the address of Mr. Playmore's London agents; and from
these gentlemen he obtained for me a letter of introduction to Mr.
Playmore himself. I had nothing to conceal from my new adviser; and I
was properly described in the letter as Eustace Macallan's second wife.

The same evening we two set forth (Benjamin refused to let me travel
alone) by the night mail for Edinburgh.

I had previously written to Miserrimus Dexter (by my old friend's
advice), merely saying that I had been unexpectedly called away from
London for a few days, and that I would report to him the result of my
interview with Lady Clarinda on my return. A characteristic answer was
brought back to the cottage by Ariel: "Mrs. Valeria, I happen to be a
man of quick perceptions; and I can read the _unwritten_ part of your
letter. Lady Clarinda has shaken your confidence in me. Very good. I
pledge myself to shake your confidence in Lady Clarinda. In the meantime
I am not offended. In serene composure I await the honor and the
happiness of your visit. Send me word by telegraph whether you would
like Truffles again, or whether you would prefer something simpler and
lighter--say that incomparable French dish, Pig's Eyelids and Tamarinds.
Believe me always your ally and admirer, your poet and cook--DEXTER."

Arrived in Edinburgh, Benjamin and I had a little discussion. The
question in dispute between us was whether I should go with him, or go
alone, to Mr. Playmore. I wa