This came as a repulse to my heart's eager yearning; no sister's confidences could answer the call that my nature was shouting to her. But I gulped down a rising soreness of the heart and I said: "I thank you."
The old man, with heavy tread, strode into the room. "It was to a finish," he whispered. His hands were covered with blood. "It was to a finish, and they are both dead."
There was a sharp rap at the door. Guinea opened it and in came the old General. "Mr. Jucklin, can I speak to you in private?" he asked, bowing to the women.
"No. What you've got to say, out with it here."
"I would rather say it in private. Why, what's the matter with your hands?"
"It was to a finish, sir, and let what you say be to a finish, even if it is three times as bloody."
"Oh, I have come out of no hard feelings, sir. Ladies, would you and our friend, Mr. Hawes, mind retiring?"
"They are goin' to stay here, sir," the old man replied, rolling up his sleeves.
"All right, just as you will, sir. Mr. Jucklin, years ago we entered into an arrangement——"
"And I have cursed myself ever since!" the old man exclaimed.