"No, on my soul I did not."
"Can I believe you?"
"Yes,--appearances were against you, but I swore you were--innocent. I told the detective so."
"Detective! Is a detective employed?"
"Yes."
"By you?--don't deny it. I see it in your face. Oh, God!" wringing her hands; "What am I to do? You will ruin my sister!"
Ronald suddenly grew calm.
"Carmela, you know I love you?"
"Don't speak of love at such a time."
"I must; I believe I can save your sister."