How shall we regard each other then ?" "Trouble me not with the question," rejoined Lord Roos gloomily; "I have not come here to listen to sermons, and will brook no more reproaches." "I do not mean to reproach you, William," she returned meekly; "but the thought of our dire offence rises perpetually before me.

Would we could undo what we have done!" "I tell you it is too late," rejoined Lord Roos harshly.
At this moment Diego suddenly presented himself, and apologizing for the abruptness of his entrance, accounted for it by saying that Sarah Swarton besought a word with his Lordship.

She brought a message, he added, from Lady Roos, who was much worse, and not finding his Lordship at his own residence had ventured to follow him to Exeter House to deliver it.
"I will come to her anon," said Lord Roos carelessly.
"No, no; admit her at once, Diego," cried the Countess; "I would hear what she has to say." And the next moment Sarah Swarton being ushered into the room, she rushed up to her and eagerly demanded, "How fares it with your lady?
Is there any hope for her ?" "None whatever," replied Sarah, shaking her head sadly.

"She is past all chance of recovery." "Then Heaven pardon me!" ejaculated the Countess, clasping her hands together, and falling upon her knees.
Sarah Swarton gazed at her in astonishment; while Lord Roos, rushing towards her, commanded her to rise.
"Take heed what you say and do, Countess," he whispered.

"You will excite this woman's suspicions." "Why should your ladyship implore Heaven's pardon because my poor dear lady is near her end ?" inquired Sarah.
"I sue for it because I have caused her much affliction," replied the Countess.
"Your message, Sarah--your message ?" interposed Lord Roos.