Then and only then can we consider his plea for clemency." "You would consider it ?" she asked keenly.
"Of course.

We should have to consider it.

Voluntary surrender and reparation would be something like turning state's witness--against himself." Constance said nothing.
"Can you do it ?" he asked, watching craftily to see whether she might not drop a hint that might prove valuable.
"I know those who might try," she answered, catching the look.
Wickham changed.
"What if we should get him without your aid!" he blustered.
"Try," she shrugged.
Arguments and threats were of no avail with her.

She would say nothing more definite.

She was obdurate.
"You must leave it all to me," she repeated.