"All this plotting of crime is such as is found in novels, not in real life----" "In real life," cried Diana, taking the words out of his mouth, "more incredible things take place than can be conceived by the most fantastic imagination of an author.

Look at this talk of ours--it began with words of love and marriage speeches, and it ends with a discussion of murder.
But this I say, Lucian, that if you love me, and would have me marry you, you must find out the truth of these matters.

Learn if this dead man is my father--for from what you have told me of the lost finger I do not believe that he is.

Hunt down the assassin, and discover if he is whom I believe him to be--Ferruci himself; and learn, if you can, what Lydia has to do with all these evil matters.

Do this, and I am yours.
Refuse, and I shall not marry you!" "You set me a hard task," said Lucian, with a sigh, "and I hardly know how to set about it." "Be guided by me," replied Diana.