Then Lucinda and Mrs. Carbuncle were alone. "Of one thing I feel sure," said Lucinda in a low voice.
"What is that, dear?"
"I shall never see Sir Griffin Tewett again."
"You talk in that way on purpose to break me down at the last moment," said Mrs. Carbuncle.
"Dear Aunt Jane, I would not break you down if I could help it. I have struggled so hard,—simply that you might be freed from me. We have been very foolish, both of us; but I would bear all the punishment,—if I could."
"You know that this is nonsense now."
"Very well. I only tell you. I know that I shall never see him again. I will never trust myself alone in his presence. I could not do it. When he touches me my whole body is in agony. To be kissed by him is madness."
"Lucinda, this is very wicked. You are working yourself up to a paroxysm of folly."
"Wicked;—yes, I know that I am wicked. There has been enough of wickedness certainly. You don't suppose that I mean to excuse myself?"
"Of course you will marry Sir Griffin to-morrow."