"It _can_ be avoided, as I have hinted, in one way, and in one way only.

There is a letter I have just received from my wife; wherein, after her usual upbraidings, remonstrances, and entreaties, she concludes by saying, that if I continue deaf to her prayers, and refuse to break off entirely with you, and return to her, our 'criminal attachment,'-- for so she terms our love--should be divulged to the deluded Earl of Exeter, who will know how to redress her wrongs, and avenge his own injured honour.
What answer, save one, can be returned to that letter, Frances?
If we set her at defiance, as we have hitherto done, she will act, for she is goaded on by that fury, her mother.

We must gain a little time, in order that the difficulties now besetting us may be effectually removed." "I shudder to think of it, William," said the Countess, trembling and turning deathly pale.

"No; it must not be.

Rather than such a crime should be committed, I will comply with their demand." "And leave me ?" cried Lord Roos, bitterly.