�Oh, if you would! I never have a chance to speak to any one; it�s so difficult—he watches me—he�ll be back immediately.�
�Try to tell me what I can do.�
�I don�t dare; I feel as if he were behind me.� She turned away, fixing her eyes on the picture. A sound startled her. �There he comes, and I haven�t spoken! It was my only chance; but it bewilders me so to be hurried.�
�I don�t hear any one,� said Wyant, listening. �Try to tell me.�
�How can I make you understand? It would take so long to explain.� She drew a deep breath, and then with a plunge—�Will you come here again this afternoon—at about five?� she whispered.
�Come here again?�
�Yes—you can ask to see the picture,—make some excuse. He will come with you, of course; I will open the door for you—and—and lock you both in�—she gasped.
�Lock us in?�
�You see? You understand? It�s the only way for me to leave the house—if I am ever to do it�—She drew another difficult breath. �The key will be returned—by a safe person—in half an hour,—perhaps sooner—�
She trembled so much that she was obliged to lean against the settle for support.