"Nothing, madam; nothing for evermore," wailed Nora, without looking up or changing her posture.
"Humph! I am glad to hear it, I am sure!" grunted Mrs. Brudenell.
"Nothing? you say; nothing?" questioned Lady Hurstmonceux.
"Nothing in this world, madam; nothing whatever! so be at ease." It was another wail of the storm-swept heart-strings.
"I truly believe you; I ought to have believed without asking you; but who, then, has been your betrayer, my poor girl?" inquired the young matron in tones of deepest pity.
This question at length shook the statue; a storm passed through her; she essayed to speak, but her voice failed.
"Tell me, poor one; and I will do what I can to right your wrongs. Who is it?"
"Myself!" moaned Nora, closing her eyes as if to shut out all light and life, while a spasm drew back the corners of her mouth and convulsed her face.
"Enough of this, Berenice! You forget the girls!" said Mrs. Brudenell, putting her hand to the bell and ringing again.
"I beg your pardon, madam; I did indeed forget the presence of the innocent and happy in looking upon the erring and wretched," said Lady Hurstmonceux.