William did not know what to say. He believed there was nothing for it at present but to let him "rave himself out." "But I wish," he said, aloud, continuing the bent of his own thoughts, "that you would be a little rational over it."
"Stop a bit. Did you ever experience a blow such as this?"
"No indeed."
"Then don't hold forth to me, I say. You do not understand. It was all the joy I had on earth."
"You must learn to find other joys, other——"
"The despicable villain!" broke forth Henry, the heat-drops welling to his brow, as they had welled to Anna's when before the judge. "The shame-faced, cowardly villain! Was she not Samuel Lynn's child, and my sister's friend? What possessed the jury to acquit him? Did they think a rope's-end too good for his neck?"
"He was proved innocent of the murder. If he has any conscience——"
"What?" fiercely interrupted Henry Ashley. "He a conscience! I don't know what you are dreaming of. Is he going to stop in Helstonleigh?"
"I conclude so. He resumed his place quietly in his father's office the day after the trial. He is in London now, but only temporarily."
"Resumed his place quietly! What was the mob about, then?"