'Yes, you must let me. I was going to try and see you tonight, Lydia, to ask what—'
'And I wanted to see you. I felt I must tell you how well everything seemed to be going. Oh, and now—How shall I tell Gilbert? How shall I tell him? What ought I to do, Mr. Ackroyd? Thyrza made me promise faithful I wouldn't tell her secret. She says that, in the note. I'm sure she hasn't gone—gone to him. She couldn't marry Gilbert, and yet she doesn't want him to lose the library. That's why she's gone; I know it is. She believes I shall keep my promise. But what must I do? How can I pretend I don't know anything?'
'I don't think you can.'
'I didn't care for anything as long as it helped her. Mr. Boddy sent for me just now—that was why I had to go out. Mrs. Bower had been telling him. I said it was all a lie from beginning to end. Didn't I do right, Mr. Ackroyd? I'd say and do anything for Thyrza. But how can I keep it from Gilbert flow?'
'You can't, Lydia. He's bound to hear from somebody. And if you feel so sure that she hasn't gone—'
'She hasn't She hasn't! You promised me you wouldn't think harm of her.'
'Indeed I won't. But Grail's bound to know. I can't see that you'll make it a bit better by denying.'
'But my promise to Thyrza! The last thing she ever asked of me. And Gilbert 'll refuse the place; I know he will!'
'Yes, he will. There's no man could take it after this. I'm right down sorry for poor Grail.'
They were in Walnut Tree Walk by this time.