She was more uncomfortable after she came home, for by the sounds
when Mr. Kendal next emerged from his study, she found that he had
locked himself in, to guard against further intrusion. And when she
offered to return to him the key of the cellaret, he quietly replied
that he should prefer her retaining it,--not a formidable answer in
itself, but one which, coupled with the locking of the door, proved
to her that she might do anything rather than invade his privacy.

Now Maurice's study was the thoroughfare of the household, the place
for all parish preparations unpresentable in the drawing-room, and
Albinia was taken by surprise. She grew hot and cold. Had she done
anything wrong? Could he care for her if he could lock her out?

'I will not be morbid, I will not be absurd,' said she to herself,
though the tears stood in her eyes. 'Some men do not like to be
rushed in upon! It may be only habit. It may have been needful
here. It is base to take petty offences, and set up doubts.'

And Mr. Kendal's tender manner when they were again together, his
gentle way of addressing her, and a sort of shy caress, proved that
he was far from all thought of displeasure; nay, he might be
repenting of his momentary annoyance, though he said nothing.

Albinia went to inquire after the sick man at her first leisure
moment, and while talking kindly to the wife, and hearing her
troubles, was surprised at the forlorn rickety state of the building,
the broken pavement, damp walls, and door that would not shut,
because the frame had sunk out of the perpendicular.

'Can't you ask your landlord to do something to the house?'