"Yet there should be no difficulty in doing so. You rescued me, you thought of me, acted for me."
"Mention not that again," I replied bitterly, "I am sorely ashamed."
"I do not mean the—the first part of the journey, but afterwards. I have heard of your trial before Lord Falmouth, heard of what Otho Killigrew said. You refused to tell all the truth because you feared to hurt me. You did not wish that man to know anything concerning me."
I wondered who her informant might be, but I did not speak.
"When I knew you were taken to Launceston, and feeling sure that Otho would show no mercy if you were brought to trial, I did my best. I could do no other—I—I—would have done the same for any one."
She spoke coldly; her tones were hard and unfeeling. My heart grew chill; the hope that arose in me, in spite of myself, was dispelled.
"Thank you," I said, as steadily as I could. "But why—why did you wish me to remain in ignorance—as to who you were?"
"Because I thought it was better so. No one who saw me in Launceston would recognize me now."
"What disguise did you wear? What means did you use to—to effect my escape; that is, beyond those I know of?"