I will show him those letters, and ask him in justice to give me some share of the fortune he has deprived me of.

I shall read every word to him, and tell him all that took place; he may judge between us." The letter fell from her nerveless hands, and Marion, Lady Atherton, fell on her knees with a cry of despair.

She was powerless to help herself, she could do nothing, she could get no more money; and even if she could of what avail?
If she sent this, in a few weeks or months at the farthest, he would renew his demand, and she could not do more.

The sword must fall, as well now as in a year's time; besides, the suspense was killing her.

The long strain upon her nerves began to tell at last.
She was fast, losing her health and strength; she could not eat nor sleep; she was as one beside herself; frightful dreams, dread that knew no words, fear that could not be destroyed, pursued her.