"I am a great sufferer, and I have long had suspicions as to that valve.

I am delighted to hear that they are unwarranted.

Had your father, Miss Morstan, refrained from throwing a strain upon his heart, he might have been alive now." I could have struck the man across the face, so hot was I at this callous and off-hand reference to so delicate a matter.

Miss Morstan sat down, and her face grew white to the lips.

"I knew in my heart that he was dead," said she.
"I can give you every information," said he, "and, what is more, I can do you justice; and I will, too, whatever Brother Bartholomew may say.
I am so glad to have your friends here, not only as an escort to you, but also as witnesses to what I am about to do and say.