You have married not only a low-born girl, but the daughter of a felon--a felon's daughter is mistress of proud Beechwood! You who scorned Philippa L'Estrange, who had the cruelty to refuse the love of a woman who loved you--you who looked for your ideal in the clouds, have found it near a prison cell! The daughter of a felon will be the mistress of the grand old house where some of the noblest ladies of the land have ruled--the daughter of a felon will be mother of the heirs of Arleigh.

Could I have planned, prayed for, hoped for, longed for a sweeter revenge?
"I am indifferent as to what you may do in return.

I have lived for my revenge, and now that I have tasted it life is indifferent to me.

You will, of course, write to complain to the duke, and he, with his honest indignation justly aroused, will perhaps refuse to see me again.

I care not; my interest in life ended when my love died.
"Let me add one thing more.