I conjure you tell me the worst, without hesitation.' She rested her trembling arm upon the wall.
'I can tell you,' said Barnardine, and paused .-- Emily had no power to enforce her entreaties.
'I CAN tell you,' resumed Barnardine,--'but'-- 'But what ?' exclaimed Emily, recovering her resolution.
'Here I am, ma'amselle,' said Annette, who, having heard the eager tone, in which Emily pronounced these words, came running towards her.
'Retire!' said Barnardine, sternly; 'you are not wanted;' and, as Emily said nothing, Annette obeyed.
'I CAN tell you,' repeated the porter,--'but I know not how--you was afflicted before.'-- 'I am prepared for the worst, my friend,' said Emily, in a firm and solemn voice.

'I can support any certainty better than this suspense.' 'Well, Signora, if that is the case, you shall hear .-- You know, I suppose, that the Signor and his lady used sometimes to disagree.

It is none of my concerns to enquire what it was about, but I believe you know it was so.' 'Well,' said Emily, 'proceed.' 'The Signor, it seems, had lately been very wrath against her.

I saw all, and heard all,--a great deal more than people thought for; but it was none of my business, so I said nothing.

A few days ago, the Signor sent for me.