s assured he was not only not within the house, but I
verily believed many miles distant. They believed me, and respectfully
enough retired.

Miss Tremayne, the companion and nurse of the invalid, now with myself
stood over her. She had another attack upon the region of her heart:
and it was so long before she rallied, that we thought the fatal moment
had arrived. When she could again breathe freely, her colour did not,
as formerly, return to her cheeks. They wore an intense and transparent
whiteness, at once awful and beautiful. Yet she spoke calmly and
collectedly. I entreated to be permitted to depart--my intercessions
were seconded by the young lady. But the now cold hand of Mrs Causand
clasped mine so tightly, and the expression of her eyes was so
imploring, that I could not rudely break away from her.

"But a few short minutes," she exclaimed, "and then fare you well. I
feel worse than I ever yet remember--and very cold. It is not now the
complaint that has cast me down upon a sick-bed that seems invading the
very principle of life--a chilly faintness is coming over me--yet I dare
not lay my head upon my pillow, lest I never from thence lift it again.
Ralph, here is a warmth in your young blood--support me!"

I cradled her head upon my shoulder, and whispered to Miss Tremayne, who
immediately retired, to procure the speedy attendance of the physician.

"Are we alone, Ralph?" said the shuddering lady, with her eyes firmly
closed. "I have a horrid presentiment that my hour is approaching--
everything is so still around and within me. Every sensation seems
deserting me rapidly, but one--and that is a mother's feeling! You will
leave me here to die, amongst menials and strangers!"

"Miss Tremayne?" said I, soothingly.

"Is but a hired companion; engaged only since the occurrence of these
attacks. Yes, you will desert me to these--and for what, God of
retribution!--to hunt down the life of my only son! Will you, will you,
Ralph, do this over-cruel thing?"

"He has attempted mine--he still seeks it. Let us talk, let us think,
of other matters. Compose your mind with religious thoughts. Your
strength will rally during the night; to-morrow comes hope, the
consultation of physicians, and, with God's good blessings, life and
health."

"To hear, to know, that he is to die the death of the felon! Promise me
to forego your purpose, or let me die first!"

"I have sworn over the grave of my mother tha