Mrs. Lorrimer. Yes. [Very quietly.

Dawson. You are the only woman in the world who can help me.

Mrs. Lorrimer. [Seriously.] I consider that a true compliment, Mr. Dawson.

Dawson. I hesitate because I do not know if I have the right to ask you to share my secret with me.

Mrs. Lorrimer. As far as I am concerned, I give you that right.

Dawson. You will help me at no matter what inconvenience to yourself?

Mrs. Lorrimer. Yes—but I may not—er—consider it an "inconvenience" to myself. [Smiling.

Dawson. Very well then—the terrible trouble of yesterday is not the only calamity that may happen to my sister and her daughter.

Mrs. Lorrimer. [Rising—surprised, disappointed, but still affected seriously by his serious manner.] It is of them you wish to speak to me?

Dawson. Yes.