“You owe a large sum to the estate!” said Donal.
“It is lost—all lost, I tell you! I have nowhere to go to! I am dying!”
He looked so utterly wretched that Donal’s heart smote him. He stood back a little, and gave himself time.
“You would wish then to retire, my lord, I presume?” he said.
“Immediately—to be rid of you!” the earl answered.
“I fear, my lord, if you stay, you will not soon be rid of me! Have you brought Simmons with you?”
“No, damn him! he is like all the rest of you: he has left me!”
“I will help you to bed, my lord.”
“Go about your business. I will get myself to bed.”
“I will not leave you except in bed,” rejoined Donal with decision; and ringing the bell, he desired the servant to ask mistress Brookes to come to him.