The utmost she might achieve would be to cast a malignant shadow over her sister.

Even if Fay herself confessed the difficulties of obtaining Michael's release after this lapse of time would be very great.

Unless the confession came from her they would be insuperable.
As Magdalen walked her strong heart quailed within her.

Long ago in her passionate youth she had met anguish and had vanquished it alone.

But how to bear the burden of another's sin without sharing the sin?
How to help Fay and Michael?
Fay had indeed cast her burden upon her.