"From Yorkshire, Sir Everard--yes, all the way from Yorkshire in this
disguise. Ah! it seems very bold and unwomanly, does it not? But my
uncle was such a tyrant, and I had no appeal. I am an orphan, Sir
Everard. My father and mother have been dead since my earliest
recollection, and this uncle, my sole earthly relative, has been my
guardian and tormentor. I can not tell you how cruelly he has treated
me. I have been immured in a desolate old country-house, without
friends or companions of my own age or sex, and left to drag on a
useless and aimless life. My poor father left me a scant inheritance;
but, such as it is, my uncle set his greedy heart upon adding it to his
own. To do this, he determined upon marrying me to his only son. My
cousin William was his father over again--meaner, more cruel and crafty
and cold-blooded, if possible--and utterly abhorred by me. I would
sooner have died ten thousand deaths than marry such a sordid, hateful
wretch! But marry him I surely must have done, if I remained in their
power. So I fled. With inconceivable trouble and maneuvering. I
obtained this suit of clothes. If I fled undisguised, I knew I would
certainly be pursued, overtaken, and brought back. In the dead of
night I opened my chamber window and made my escape. I took a loaded
pistol of my uncle's with me; I knew how to use it, and I felt safe
with such a protector. My old nurse lived in Plymouth with her
daughter, and to her I meant to go. I had a little money with me, and
made good my escape. My disguise saved me from suspicion and insult.
Last night, on my way to Worrel, I heard your cry for help, and my
pistol stood me in good stead, for the first time. There, Sir Everard,
you know all. I hate and despise myself for the dress I wear, but
surely there is some excuse to be made for me."

The Spanish eyes, swimming in tears, were raised imploringly to his,