“Yes, sir—I did,” interrupted Mrs. Mortimer, who, in her eagerness to learn the motive of the young gentleman’s accosting her, gave him encouragement to proceed.
“Tell me,” said he, speaking with an equal impatience,—“tell me—do you know the beautiful creature who dwells in that seclusion? But of course you must know her—you have been there—perhaps in her company——”
“I have only just left her presence,” observed Mrs. Mortimer.
“And you are well acquainted with her, then?” cried the young gentleman, eagerly.
“Perfectly well,” was the answer. “But wherefore these questions?”
“Oh! if I could trust you!” ejaculated the stranger, in a tone that alike proffered and invited confidence.
“You can—you may,” said the old woman, impressively.
“If I were assured of that, I would reward you well,” was his next remark.
“How can I prove that I am trustworthy?” demanded Mrs. Mortimer.
“By telling me all you know concerning the beauteous creature who resides in that strange seclusion,” responded the young gentleman.