The girl slowly opened her eyes, and gazed up at him, with a loving smile.
"Yes, Hal, I know. I am dying, Hal. Where is Fritz?"
"I don't know, darling. I have not seen him since morning."
"Well, when you see him, tell him I sent the message, and got an answer that the detectives would come."
"The detectives?"
"Yes. I went for him, to telegraph for them, and he gave me five dollars. It is in my pocket, Hal—you can have it, to get me a little, plain stone for my grave."
"But, Susie, you can't be dying—tell me what is the matter?"
"She has been cruelly beaten. I came here a few moments ago and drove off the devils, but I fear I came too late!" Mr. Thornton explained, sadly.
"It was papa, you know!" Sue added, as Hartly uttered a cry of astonishment. "He discovered the errand I had done, and had a big Irishman capture me and bring me here. Then he and the countess came, and I was tied to a stake and whipped till I fainted. They have killed me, I guess. I feel as if I am filling up inside, and something tells me I shall soon die. I hate to leave you, Hal, but I am not afraid to die. I have always said my prayers, loved the Lord, and been honest, and I know He will receive me."
The girl's childish faith and simplicity touched Mr. Thornton as well as young Hartly, and tears flowed freely.