[The House by the Church-Yard by J. Sheridan Le Fanu]@TWC D-Link book
The House by the Church-Yard

CHAPTER XCIV
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So Toole said instead-- 'We've been thinking of getting you down in a little while, doctor, if all goes pleasantly; 'tis a lovely day, and a good omen--see how the sun shines in at the curtain.' But there was no responsive sunshine upon Sturk's stern; haggard face, as he said very low--still looking on the foot-board--'I thank you, doctor.' So after a few more questions, and a little bit of talk with Mrs.Sturk, they got that good lady out of the room, and said Lowe to the patient-- 'I'm sorry to trouble you, Dr.Sturk, but there's a weighty matter at which you last night hinted; and Dr.Toole thought you then too weak; and in your present state, I would not now ask you to speak at any length, were the matter of less serious moment.' 'Yes, Sir,' said Sturk, but did not seem about to speak any more; and after a few seconds, Lowe continued.
'I mean, Dr.Sturk, touching the murder of Mr.Beauclerc, which you then said was committed by the same Charles Archer, who assaulted you in the park.' 'Ay, Sir,' said Sturk.
'The same murder of which Lord Dunoran was adjudged guilty.' Sturk moved his lips with a sort of nod.
'And, Doctor Sturk, you remember you then said you had yourself _seen_ Charles Archer do that murder.' Sturk lifted his hand feebly enough to his forehead, and his lips moved, and his eyes closed.

They thought he was praying--possibly he was; so they did not interrupt him; and he said, all on a sudden, but in a low dejected way, and with many pauses-- 'Charles Archer.

I never saw another such face; 'tis always before me.
He was a man that everybody knew was dangerous--a damnable profligate besides--and, as all believed, capable of anything, though nobody could actually bring anything clearly home to him but his bloody duels, which, however, were fairly fought.

I saw him only thrice in my life before I saw him here.

In a place, at Newmarket, where they played hazard, was once; and I saw him fight Beau Langton; and I saw him murder Mr.
Beauclerc.


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