"'Under any circumstances,' was my reply, 'confess all; restore all'
"She looked up quickly and said sharply; 'Why restore?'
"'To prove the sincerity of your regrets.'
"'Ah, well!' said she, thoughtfully, 'if I could only satisfy myself that recovery was impossible. I have much to leave behind me; and there are some circumstances—'
"She hesitated and was silent. A minute or two elapsed and I urged—
"'Be candid and be just,—make reparation while you possess the power.'
"'You advise well,' said she, faintly. 'I would fain relieve my mind. It is sorely oppressed, for with regard to my property—my—my savings—'
"As she spoke there arose, close to us, clear and painfully audible, a low, mocking laugh. It was not akin to mirth. There was no gladness in its tone. It betokened enmity, triumph, scorn. The dying woman heard it, and cowered beneath its influence. An expression of agonizing fear passed over her countenance. Some minutes elapsed before she could sufficiently command herself to speak or even listen.
"'Carry out forthwith,' said I, in a tone of resolution I could with difficulty command, 'carry out your present determination. Make restitution to the utmost of your power. Restore all; confess all.'
"'I will do so and now,' was her reply.