“You have heard all, Maude?”
“Yes; all—all.”
“And you forgive me the great wrong I did you, Maude?”
“Freely and fully, from my heart and soul.”
“And you will acknowledge our son when I am gone? Oh, Maude! I loved you through all. I was unworthy of you; but I loved you as none other loved before. Maude, where is he?”
“Who? Reginald?”
“Your—Lord De Courcy. Is he here?”
“Yes. My dear old friend, I am sorry for this,” said the earl, stepping forward.
The dying rover held out his hand, and Lord De Courcy took it in his strong clasp.
“I am glad you have come—I am glad you are her protector through life. Do you remember our last parting, Lord Ernest?”