Clem was proving disloyal, had grown secretive. Mrs.
Peckover did not look for any direct profit worth speaking of from
the marriage she had brought about, but she did desire the joy of
continuing to plot against Joseph with his wife. Moreover, she knew
that Clem was a bungler, altogether lacking in astuteness, and her
soul was pained by the thought of chances being missed. Her
encounter with the lodger had wrought her up to the point at which
she could discuss matters with Clem frankly. The two abused each
other for a while, but Clem really desired to communicate her news,
so that calmer dialogue presently ensued.
'Old Snowdon's had a stroke, if you'd like to know, and it's my
belief he won't get over it.'
'Your belief! And what's your belief worth? Had a stroke, has he?
Who told you?'
'I've just come from the 'ouse. Jo's stoppin' there.'
They discussed the situation in all its aspects, but Mrs. Peckover
gave it clearly to be understood that, from her point of view, 'the
game was spoilt.' As long as Joseph continued living under her roof
she could in a measure direct the course of events; Clem had chosen
to abet him in his desire for removal, and if ill came of it she had
only herself to blame.
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