Without doubt he was devotedly attached to the girl, having been an admirer of her for the best part of his life, and there can be but little question with regard to the motive for the commission of the crime for which he was about to suffer.
Everybody attributed it to jealousy, and this was a righteous conclusion.
Nevertheless, Chudley did not request to see her, or send any message by those who would have delivered it.
After his interview with his master and his daughter, he seemed content, and did not appear to have a wish for further visitors.
Mr. Slapperton, it might be said, almost forced himself into his presence.
The only effect of the lawyer’s visit was to disturb and distract the wretched man’s thoughts from other and more weighty matters. But the irrepressible Slapperton was heedless of this.
As the time for the final day drew on he was informed by the governor that he could not be permitted to see the prisoner any more.
At this Slapperton was greatly incensed.
Since his interview with Patty and her father, Chudley had eaten well and slept well every night till the night of Saturday, when it was noticed that he did not sleep so soundly.
To the last he maintained that he was under a spell and in the power of a witch.