It is a gamble.

I have gambled all my life.

If you will not accord me so remote a chance as this, why, then, I shall take it in any case." "I begin to see, Madam," said I, "how large these stakes may run." "In case I lose, be sure at least I shall pay.

I shall make my atonement," she said.
"I doubt not that, Madam, with all your heart and mind and soul." "And _body_!" she whispered.

The old horror came again upon her face.
She shuddered, I did not know why.