Mrs. Secord. Say I am gone to see my brother,
'Tis known he's sick; and if I venture now
'Twill serve to make the plot seem still secure.
I must start early.
Mr. Secord. Yet not too soon, lest ill surmise
Aroused by guilty conscience doubt thy aim.
Mrs. Secord. That's true.
Yet at this time of year do travellers start
Almost at dawn to avoid the midday heats.
Tell not the children whither I am bound;
Poor darlings! Soon enough anxiety
Will fall upon them; 'tis the heritage
Of all; high, low, rich, poor; he chiefly blest
Who travels farthest ere he meets the foe.
There's much to do to leave the household straight,
I'll not retire to-night.
Mr. Secord. Oh, yes, dear wife, thou shalt not spend thy strength
On household duties, for thou'lt need it all
Ere thy long task be done. O, but I fear—
Mrs. Secord (quickly). Fear nothing!
Trust heaven and do your best, is wiser.
Should I meet harm,'twill be in doing duty:
Fail I shall not!
Mr. Secord. Retire, dear wife, and rest; I'll watch the hours
Beside thee.
Mrs. Secord. No need to watch me, James, I shall awake.
[
Aside