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Gissing, George, 1857-1903

"The Unclassed"

Woodstock preserved a stolid indifference which it
was very difficult to believe feigned.
"I've been busy," said the latter. "Never mind; there's time. She
was remanded for a week, you said? I'll go and see Helter about her.
May as well come along with me, and put the case in 'artistic'
form."
It was a word frequently on Waymark's lips, and he recognised the
unwonted touch of satire with a smile, but was yet more puzzled.
They set out together to the office of the solicitor who did
Abraham's legal business, and held with him a long colloquy. Waymark
stated all he knew or could surmise with perfect frankness. He had
heard from Julian the night before of the discovery which it was
said the police had made at Ida's lodgings, and this had
strengthened his fear that Harriet's accusation was genuine.
"How did this girl lose her place at the laundry?" asked Mr. Helter.
Waymark could not say; for all he knew it was through her own fault.
"And that's all you can tell us, Waymark?" observed Mr. Woodstock,
who had listened with a show of indifference. "Well, I have no more
time at present. Look the thing up, Helter."
On reaching home, Waymark wrote a few lines to Ida, merely to say
that Grim was provided for, and assure her that she was not
forgotten.


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