It had been whispered to Mr. Erie
that the whereabouts of Patience Crabstick had been discovered, and that
many of the leading thieves in London were assisting the police; but
nothing more was done in the way of fixing any guilt upon Lizzie Eustace.
"Upon my word, I am beginning to think that she has been more sinned
against than sinning." This was said to Lady Glencora on the morning after
Mr. Palliser's great speech about the five farthings, by Barrington Erie,
who, as it seemed, had been specially told off by the party to watch this
investigation.
"I am sure she has had nothing to do with it. I have thought so ever since
the last robbery. Sir Simon Slope told me yesterday afternoon that Mr.
Camperdown has given it up altogether." Sir Simon Slope was the Solicitor-
General of that day.
"It would be absurd for him to go on with his bill in Chancery now that
the diamonds are gone, unless he meant to make her pay for them."
"That would be rank persecution. Indeed, she has been persecuted. I shall
call upon her." Then she wrote the following letter to the duke:
"FEBRUARY 14, 18--.
"MY DEAR DUKE: Plantagenet was on his legs last night for three hours and
three-quarters, and I sat through it all.
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