The tall grave man nevertheless went on, solemnly finishing this communication.

As for Josephine, she had shrunk back in her chair, knowing not which way to turn.
"Sirs," concluded the gentleman who now occupied the floor, "while I do not find full confirmation herein of all the statements this lady has made to us, I do discover this document to be not without interest.

At its close, I find in a different handwriting--Madam, may I guess it to be your own ?--the addendum--let me see,--Ah, yes, it says merely two words: '_The darling_!'" He approached, and laid just the lightest, gentlest hand upon the shoulder of the disturbed woman, who sat speechless, her face suffused.

"Your documents are regular, Madam," he said kindly.
"As for this other, which perhaps was the one you intended me to read, that is private matter.

It is not necessary even for myself to read it.