So far, Hendle's intentions were sensible, considering the awkward position in which he was placed. But he was no diplomatist, and, having stirred up Carrington to hostility, proceeded indiscreetly to deal in a somewhat abrupt manner with Mrs. Beatson. Having got rid of one shady person he wished to get rid of the other. Already he had stated that he would send her away, but Mrs. Beatson had never believed that he would act immediately on his determination. She was, therefore, greatly dismayed when he summoned her into the library after luncheon, and intimated that she was to go.
"Why should I go?" demanded the woman with the air of a martyr. "My duties----?"
"I say nothing about your duties. But I can't have a person under my roof who listens to conversations not meant for her ears."
"Then you shouldn't have secrets!" cried Mrs. Beatson furiously. "And I didn't listen intentionally. You know that."
"You shouldn't have listened at all," said Rupert coldly, and bracing himself to meet trouble, which she had every intention of making.
"What, not to protect myself when you thought of turning me out?"
"There was no protection needed on that score," said the Squire politely. "I had no intention of turning you out."
"Then why am I turned out now?" demanded the housekeeper in a most exasperatingly illogical way.
"Because of your behavior, and I don't think that there is any need to explain further. To-day is Saturday; you must leave on Monday."
"Oh, very well, sir. With a year's wages, mind."
"Oh, no. I shall give you three months' wages, and you may consider yourself lucky that I give you any at all."
Rupert shook his head reprovingly. "I shouldn't if I were you. Your dealings with that will won't bear looking into."
"I have done nothing wrong," said Mrs. Beatson, becoming tearful.
"Ah! your ideas of morality differ from mine. I am not going to argue the point," said Rupert, pointing to the door. "You can go now."
"I shall tell all I know about the will," threatened the woman desperately.
"As you please. But in two days the will goes to my lawyers, and if Mr. Mallien inherits, he will become the owner of this place. You have no hold over me there, Mrs. Beatson."
"I believe you murdered Mr. Leigh yourself."