"You are right, sir, right. I see wherein we have both erred in our former
views; but then we were blinded, at least I was; for you know love has
always been blind. I must crave your pardon, as I would the forgiveness of
Eveline, were she present, for having entertained so unjust a thought
toward her for a single moment. Be assured, if she cannot be won by
gentleness and love, I shall never consent to make her my wife, though she
is dearer to me than life itself."

"Very well; I still feel that all will come out right, and that a peaceful
calm of sunshine will succeed the season of storm and clouds; but we must
not hurry matters; time will do more for us than we can for ourselves,
whereas haste might defeat all our hopes. At present, I do not think it
would be advisable for you to urge your suit to her; her mind is not yet
prepared to receive you with that degree of favor desirable."

"I shall act in the matter as your better judgment and clearer perception
shall dictate, and hope for the best."

And thus the interview ended. How strange that Mr. Mandeville should be so
easily deceived in regard to Duffel! and how debasingly hypocritical was
the dissembling villain! Will he never be overtaken by his crimes?




CHAPTER VIII.

THE "DARK PASSAGE"--THE THEFT.