"I place every confidence in you, dear.

You are the only real friend left to me in the whole world.

I know that you would never willingly betray me to my enemies; but----" "Well, but what ?" "But you might do so unknowingly.

You might by one single chance-word place me within the power of those who seek my downfall." "Who seeks your downfall, dad ?" she asked very seriously.
"That's a matter which I desire to keep to myself.

Unfortunately, I do not know the identity of my enemies; hence I am compelled to keep from you certain matters which, in other circumstances, you might know.