Sybil roused herself to listen, and she heard the first few lines of preamble addressed to the sheriff, but after that her attention wandered beyond control; and at the conclusion, she slightly smiled, and turning to her husband, said:
"Lyon, be sure to come early to-morrow. I want to go home in the cool of the morning."
"Yes, dear, I shall be here very early," answered Mr. Berners as steadily as he could speak, with his heart breaking.
Then laying her gently back on her pillow, he touched the sheriff on the shoulder and beckoned him to follow to the window.
"You see," said Mr. Berners, as they stood side by side, looking out.
"I see. I am very much shocked. This should be looked into. A medical examination should be made. Another appeal should be sent to the governor. Has Mr. Worth returned to Washington?"
"No; he has been waiting the issue of the petition to the governor."
"Then I advise you to see and consult him without loss of time. Do it now; this morning," urged the sheriff, as he took up his hat and gloves to leave the cell.
He went to Sybil's bedside to take leave of her.
"Good-morning, Mrs. Berners," he said, holding out his hand.