“And in the first place?” said the Bishop.
She met his look again. “In the first place I left them at night with your nephew. We went to an inn at Fordestown. He went up to town the next day, and I took a lodging in the place. I went back to Tetherstones about a week later at the request of old Dr. Square who attended them. The little girl was ill and wanted me. She died that night.”
“And you stayed on?” said the Bishop.
“I stayed on until two days ago, when I also went to town in the hope of selling some of my sketches. Your nephew had offered to help me.”
“And that was your sole reason for going?” he said.
“No, not my sole reason.” She spoke deliberately, and said no more.
“But the only one you are prepared to give me?” he said.
“Yes,” she answered with decision.
He looked at his watch. “And you are not disposed to tell me how you came to run away—at night—with my nephew, a man with whom you wish me to believe that you had no desire to be associated?”
“No,” said Frances quietly.