'A fine story,' she exclaimed with a sneer, 'and no doubt the apothecary's daughter would be entirely content with it, but I know you lie.'
Kelly bowed in silence.
'Wait,' she said, mistaking the bow, for Mr. Kelly had a certain question to ask before he returned to the company; 'we must appear together.'
She took in her hand a box of lace which had been placed ready in the room.
'Your hand, if you please, Mr. Johnson, for the last time. You are going, sir, to your death by rope and knife, or by point of sword.'
Mr. Kelly gave Lady Oxford his hand, and put his question:
'Your Ladyship has no fear that I shall escape?'
Her ladyship had none whatever, as her smile clearly showed.
'Then perhaps your ladyship will inform me how much liberty I have still left to me.'
'You have to-night free,' she answered, and as he heard the words Kelly's heart gave a great leap within him. 'So much reprieve you have. But you must not go till I dismiss you. Enjoy yourself.' She took Kelly's hand with a low courtesy.