"You are ill, Frederick; you are really ill. Let me call down Mrs.
Harcourt. But no, I cannot summon her. She is this girl's aunt."

Frederick made an effort and stood up.

"Do not call anybody," he entreated. "I expect to suffer some in
casting this fascinating girl out of my heart. Ultimately I will
conquer the weakness; indeed I will. As for her interest in Mrs.
Webb's death"--how low his voice sank and how he trembled!" she
may have been better friends with her than we had any reason to
suppose. I can think of no other motive for her conduct.
Admiration for Mrs. Webb and horror---"

"Breakfast is served, gentlemen!" cried a thrilling voice behind
them. Amabel Page stood smiling in the doorway.




VII

"MARRY ME"


"Wait a moment, I must speak to you." It was Amabel who was
holding Frederick back. She had caught him by the arm as he was
about leaving the room with his father, and he felt himself
obliged to stop and listen.