"Why have you not mentioned this circumstance before? It seems of sufficient importance to merit a passing word."
"I wished not to distress the lady. I think I hinted that he was in great distress."
"I fear some evil, Miss Dumont."
"Be assured, sir, if Mr. Dumont meditates any further wrong, he has not the power of putting it into effect. He is prostrate upon his bed, and if his niece does not see him soon, it will be too late, if it is not so already. The stricken man must soon stand for judgment in another world," said De Guy, solemnly.
"This alters the case," said the doctor, musing.
"But, sir," continued the attorney, "I was aware that, after what has happened, my mission would be attended with many difficulties, and I have not come unprepared to overcome them. I do not wonder that you have no confidence,—I confess I should not have, under like circumstances. You know Dr. Le Verier?" and the attorney drew from his pocket a bundle of papers, and opening one, he glanced at the signature upon it, as he pronounced the name.
"I do, very well," replied the doctor.
"Our family physician!" exclaimed Emily.
"Here, madam, is his certificate of your uncle's physical condition," said De Guy, handing her the paper.
Emily read the paper, and handed it to the doctor.