By the marriage of Gerald Bereford and Lady Rosamond, the latter would secure an inheritance of which she was next direct heir, being the niece of the present lord incumbent.
Lady Rosamond weighed all these arguments and tried to find by some means a possibility of escape, but all lay in the dark and dim distance, exacting heavy payment from her ladyship.
This was a heavy blow to a person of Lady Rosamond's sensitive nature.
The thought was revolting to her.

For some time previous a dim foreboding haunted her--a presentiment of gloom and of deep sorrow.

On receiving the letter its weight seemed to lie heavily upon her.

Now the contents again caused her much pain.

To whom could she go for comfort?
To whom unburden her mind?
Leaning her head upon the table Lady Rosamond sought refuge in tears.