Who would believe her?
And if they did believe what good would it do?
She would only be imprisoned and kept out of harm's way, or possibly murdered out of hand.

Then she thought of attempting to communicate with her uncle and Bessie, to tell them that John was, so far as she knew, alive, only to recognise the impossibility of doing so now that the sentry had returned.

Besides, what object could be served?
The knowledge that John was alive might, it is true, encourage Bessie to resist Muller, but then the death of the old man must certainly ensue.

Dismissing this project from her mind Jess began to consider whether they could obtain assistance.

Alas! it was impossible.