Nell of Shorne Mills

"Is my inference a correct one?" said the earl, still more coldly. "I

find you here--at this unusual hour--and dressed for traveling. And he

is here--by appointment, I presume? Ah, do not deny it! It is too

obvious."

Sir Archie opened his lips, but once more Nell looked at him, and once

more her eyes commanded, rather than asked, his silence. He suppressed

an oath, and stood with clenched hands, waiting in helpless

irresolution. What was this girl going to do? Was she--was it possible

that she was going to screen Lady Wolfer at the cost of her own

reputation! The man was not altogether bad, and the remnant of honor

which still glowed in his breast rose against the idea of such a

sacrifice. And yet--it was for the woman he loved!

The perspiration broke out on his pale face, and he looked from the

stern eyes of the earl to Nell's downcast ones.

"I can't stand this!" broke from his lips. "Look here, Wolfer!"

The earl raised his head.

"I have nothing to say to you. I decline to hear you," he said grimly.

"I am addressing Miss Lorton. I have asked her a question; but it is not

necessary to inflict the pain of an answer. I am aware that I have no

legal right to interfere in Miss Lorton's movements, but she is under my

roof, she is a connection"--his voice grew a shade less stern--"I am,

indeed, almost in the position of her guardian. Therefore, I deem it my

duty to acquaint her with the character of the man with whom she

proposes to--elope."

Nell raised her head, the crimson staining her whole face; and it seemed

to Sir Archie as if her endurance had broken down; but she checked the

indignant denial which had sprung to her lips, and, closing her lips

tightly, sank back into her former attitude--an attitude which convinced

Lord Wolfer of her guilt.

"Are you aware that this gentleman, who has honored you by an invitation

to fly with him, is already a married man, Miss Lorton?"

Nell made no sign, but Sir Archie started and ground his teeth.

"He has carefully concealed the fact; but--well, I happen to know it, and

I think he will not venture to deny it."

He paused, but Sir Archie remained silent.

"Were you ignorant of it?" asked the earl.

Nell opened her lips, and they formed the word "Yes."

"I expected as much," said the earl. "And now that you know the truth,

are you still desirous of accompanying him?"