"This is mere mockery, Ellen: how dare I believe even this poor evidence of repentance, with the recollection of your past conduct? What were the notes you found?"
Ellen named them.
"Where are they?--This is but one, and the smallest."
Ellen's answer was scarcely audible.
"Used them--and for what?"
There was no answer; neither then nor when Mrs. Hamilton sternly reiterated the question. She then demanded:--
"How long have they been in your possession?"
"Five or six weeks;" but the reply was so tremulous it carried no conviction with it.
"Since Robert told his story to your uncle, or before?"
"Before."