"I give you the promise which you require," said Viola; "although I must confess that it is somewhat repugnant to my feelings to allow such a wretch to be at large with impunity."
"But for my sake, lady——"
"For your sake, I give my most solemn pledge not to do aught that may injure that man on account of his past offences."
"A thousand thanks!" ejaculated the Rattlesnake. "Let us now proceed. But, heavens! you have got nothing on your head nor on your shoulders; and I did not notice that before! Take my bonnet and shawl, madam—I am more accustomed to the cold than you."
"No," said Viola; "in five minutes I shall be at my own house. Come—let us proceed."
Mrs. Chichester and the Rattlesnake hastened towards the Cambridge Heath gate.
On reaching the door of her abode, Viola again pressed her companion to accept of her hospitality: but the Rattlesnake firmly, though respectfully, refused the offer.
"In another hour, madam," she said, "I shall not be in London. Then only shall I consider myself safe."
"At least allow me to supply you with some money for your immediate purposes. I have none about me, and I know not whether my husband has left a single shilling in the house; but any of my tradesmen in the neighbourhood will honour my draft; and if you will walk in for a few minutes—"
"Thank you, madam—thank you for your kind consideration; but I am well supplied;" and she shook the bag that she hugged beneath her arm.