"Indeed I have. It seems to me that I have had a terrible dream. Oh, it was horrible."
"You must forget all about that now, and get well as soon as possible."
"Why should I get better? What have I to live for?"
"You must live for your parents' sake, if for nothing else. They have been heart-broken over you."
"I know it, I know it," and Jean placed her hands to her face as if to hide a vision which rose suddenly before her. "But you do not know my past life. You have little idea how I have suffered, both mentally and bodily."
"Perhaps I understand more than you imagine. Anyway, I know how you looked the night I dragged you out of the water at Long Wharf."
Douglas never forgot the expression which, overspread Jean's face as he uttered these words. Her large dark eyes grew wide with amazement and a nameless terror. She clutched the bed-clothes with her tense hands, and made a motion as if to rise.
"Please do not get excited, Miss Benton," he urged. "I would not mention this now, only there is much at stake, and I want your assistance."
"And it was you who saved me?" she gasped.
"Yes, with the help of an old tug-boatman. I saw Ben Stubbles push you off the wharf into the harbour and then leave you to your fate."