May Heaven give you strength to bear the trials through which you are about to pass!" But for the instant fear for her husband, which this communication brought into the mind of Mrs.Mortimer, the shock would have rendered her insensible.

He was in danger, and upon her discretion depended his safety.

This gave her strength for the moment.

Her first act was to destroy the note.

Next she strove to repress the wild throbbings of her heart, and to assume a calm exterior.