"Think of his provocation! Selina and George Heneage had both lived only to provoke him; and people said he was really attached to Philip King."
"Good arguments, Anne. I believe I am unjust in all that relates to Edwin Barley."
"But why should you be, Mr. Chandos? Don't you think it must have been George Heneage who did the murder?"
"I beg you will not use that ugly word, Anne. My full and firm belief is that it was an accident—nothing more."
"Then why should George Heneage stay away?"
"A natural question. Of course we cannot answer for what George Heneage does or does not do. Were he to appear in England, Mr. Edwin Barley would instantly cause him to be apprehended; there's no doubt of that; innocent or guilty, he must stand his trial; and to some men that ordeal would be just as bad as conviction. Besides, he might not be able to prove that it was but an accident; I think he would not be; and, failing that proof, he would be condemned. In saying this, I am not seeking to defend George Heneage."
"Did you ever see George Heneage, Mr. Chandos?"
"Yes."
"Perhaps you knew him?"
He made no reply; but rose from his seat and began to pace the room.