'How could you,' cried I, turning to Mr Jenkinson, 'how could you add to my miseries by the story of her death! But it matters not, my pleasure at finding her again, is more than a recompence for the pain.' 'As to your question,' replied Jenkinson, 'that is easily answered.
I thought the only probable means of freeing you from prison, was by submitting to the 'Squire, and consenting to his marriage with the other young lady.

But these you had vowed never to grant while your daughter was living, there was therefore no other method to bring things to bear but by persuading you that she was dead.

I prevailed on your wife to join in the deceit, and we have not had a fit opportunity of undeceiving you till now.' In the whole assembly now there only appeared two faces that did not glow with transport.

Mr Thornhill's assurance had entirely forsaken him: he now saw the gulph of infamy and want before him, and trembled to take the plunge.

He therefore fell on his knees before his uncle, and in a voice of piercing misery implored compassion.