"Papa took up a notion that you were somehow concerned in those robberies which took place: his own purse, you know--and the Doctor's snuff-box--and the jewels."
Philip's large eyes grew larger as he stared at Maria.
"Not that I stole them? You can't mean that!"
"I fear that he was afraid you did. Dr. Downes was also."
Philip lay without speaking, lost in astonishment. Presently he burst into the strongest laugh his feeble state allowed.
"What a joke, Maria! They could not believe such a thing of me. I am Philip Cleeve."
The words imparted their own assurance. Though Maria had never needed to be assured.
"Did you think this?"
"Oh, Philip! Don't you know me better than that?"
"My dear, yes. Forgive the question. You say you will never leave me again, Maria: I bless you for that. If we could but be married here, and now, so that no adverse fate might ever more part us! Here and now!"