After the usual compliments had passed between them, Juliet asked, with an air of intense anxiety depicted on her fine countenance, if Mr. Wildegrave thought it possible that Anthony Hurdlestone had committed the murder?
He replied sorrowfully, "My dear Miss Whitmore, I know not what to think."
"Have you seen him since his imprisonment?"
"I have not. Many sorrows have confined me at home. This melancholy business has had a sad effect upon the weak nerves of my poor little sister. Clary is ill. I fear dying. She has expressed such a strong desire to see you, Miss Whitmore, once again, that I came over to make known to you her urgent request. It is asking of you a very great favor; but one, I hope, that you will not refuse to grant to our tears."
"Juliet is in very poor health herself," said her father. "If she could be spared this trying scene, it would be the better for her."
"Poor, pretty Clarissa; and she is ill—is dying," said Juliet, speaking unconsciously aloud. "This dreadful affair has killed her; and she wishes to see me. Yes, I will go."
"My child, you know not what you are about to undertake," said the old man, coming forward. "It may be the death of you."
"Dear papa, I am stronger than you think. I have borne a worse sorrow," she added, in a whisper. "Let me go."
"Please yourself, Julee; but I fear it will be too much for you."
Frederic was anxious that Clary should be gratified; and, in spite of Captain Whitmore's objections, he continued, backed by Juliet, to urge his request. Reluctantly the old man yielded to their united entreaties.