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Page 116
the circumstances, to forego mysteries for a while and stick to biography and romance.
Coming away from the library, which she had caught just as it was closing, Linda's mind was still on books. It seemed to her now that not taking any mysteries was a mistake. Perhaps the omission would be so glaring that it would arouse anxiety? Linda thought of going back, but knew it was too late. Finally she decided to tell Mrs. Bates, if she asked, that she felt nervous and reluctant to read a mystery. Linda was annoyed with herself and still somewhat preoccupied as she opened the door and walked up the stairs. Gertude's sudden appearance in the short corridor took her by surprise.
"Madam is in bed," the maid whispered.
"My God," Linda gasped. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing, nothing. Madam often takes an afternoon in bed on Mondayalthough I think what happened may have worried her more than she lets on. Mr. Peter is in the kitchen. He wants to talk to you."
Linda felt her expression change, made a desperate effort, and, she hoped, concealed the spurt of pleasure she felt. She started forward, but Gertrude caught her arm.
"I had to tell him, Miss Linda. In spite of what madam said, I was that upset, I couldn't sleep a wink last night."
Linda smiled. "That's all right, Gertrude. I would have told him myself, but I didn't know where to reach him. I couldn't ask

 
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