Now, while this is not so much in itself, it will be a bar to his future advancement--for preferment does not often seek the men who fail, even when they fail from having superior wisdom and nobleness to the multitude." It was evident that Sir William and Lady Mary had talked over this witchcraft matter, and its bearing upon his position, a good many times.
And Master Raymond saw very clearly the difficulties of the case.
"And still, if the robe of the Governor can only continue to be worn by dyeing it with innocent blood, I think that a man of the natural greatness and nobility of Sir William, would not hesitate as to his decision." "But a new Governor in his place might do worse." "Yes, he might easily do that." "When it comes to taking more lives by his order, then he will decide upon his course.

So far he is temporizing," said the lady.
"And Dulcibel ?" "She is not suffering," was the reply.

"Oh, if I only could say the same of the poor old women, and poor young women, now lying in those cold and loathsome cells--innocent of any crime whatever either against God or against man--I should not feel it all here so heavily," and Lady Mary pressed her hand against her heart.

"But we are not responsible for it! I have taken off every chain--and do all I dare; while Sir William shuts his eyes to my unlawful doings." "Will you aid her to escape, should her life be in danger?
You told me to speak out frankly and to the point." The lady hesitated only for a moment.

"I will do all I can--even to putting my own life in peril.