"I had some difficulty with her at first, but I found means to overrule her scruples, and she consented at last to act as I desired, provided all other means failed of accomplishing the object in view.

And they _have_ failed since we have lost those letters, for though I have one other proof left which might perhaps be adduced, I do not attach much importance to it." "What is it ?" inquired Sir Thomas, quickly.
"You shall know anon," she answered.

"Suffice it, I have done all I could to avoid having recourse to the present measure; and have delayed--its execution to the last moment." "But that proof of which you were speaking ?" cried Sir Thomas.

"Let me hear it?
Perhaps it may obviate the necessity of this dangerous proceeding ?" "I do not think so.

But you shall judge.