Well now! I don't know what Mr.Henry will say to me, but I have thought of this.

If you'll write a letter to Frank, just saying distinctly that, for reasons which must for ever remain a secret..." "Remain a secret from Frank ?" said Maggie, again lifting up her head.
"Why ?" "Why?
my dear! You startle me with that manner of yours--just let me finish out my sentence.

If you'll say that, for reasons which must forever remain a secret, you decidedly and unchangeably give up all connection, all engagement with him (which, in fact, Edward's conduct has as good as put an end to), I'll go over to Woodchester and tell Mr.Henry and the police that they need not make further search after Edward, for that I won't appear against him.

You can save your brother; and you'll do yourself no harm by writing this letter, for of course you see your engagement is broken off.
For you never would wish to disgrace Frank." He paused, anxiously awaiting her reply.

She did not speak.
"I'm sure, if I appear against him, he is as good as transported," he put in, after a while.
Just at this time there was a little sound of displaced china in the closet.