I was cogitating what the mystery might be, and determined Catherine should never suffer to benefit him or any one else, by my good will; when, hearing a rustle among the ling, I looked up and saw Mr.Heathcliff almost close upon us, descending the Heights.

He didn't cast a glance towards my companions, though they were sufficiently near for Linton's sobs to be audible; but hailing me in the almost hearty tone he assumed to none besides, and the sincerity of which I couldn't avoid doubting, he said-- 'It is something to see you so near to my house, Nelly.

How are you at the Grange?
Let us hear.

The rumour goes,' he added, in a lower tone, 'that Edgar Linton is on his death-bed: perhaps they exaggerate his illness ?' 'No; my master is dying,' I replied: 'it is true enough.

A sad thing it will be for us all, but a blessing for him!' 'How long will he last, do you think ?' he asked.
'I don't know,' I said.
'Because,' he continued, looking at the two young people, who were fixed under his eye--Linton appeared as if he could not venture to stir or raise his head, and Catherine could not move, on his account--'because that lad yonder seems determined to beat me; and I'd thank his uncle to be quick, and go before him! Hallo! has the whelp been playing that game long?
I _did_ give him some lessons about snivelling.