"No one shall harm you more, my dear," cried Lady Trafford. "Your uncle must protect you. It will be his interest to do so. He will be dependent on you."
"Do what you please with him," muttered Trenchard to Wild.
"Take off these chains, Rowland," said Lady Trafford, "instantly, I command you."
"I will," replied Jonathan, advancing, and rudely seizing Thames.
"Mother!" cried the son, "help!"
"What is this?" shrieked Lady Trafford, raising herself on the couch, and extending her hands towards him. "Oh, God! would you take him from me?—would you murder him?"
"His father's name?—and he is free," rejoined Rowland, holding her arms.
"Release him first—and I will disclose it!" cried Lady Trafford; "on my soul, I will!"
"Speak then!" returned Rowland.
"Too late!" shrieked the lady, falling heavily backwards,—"too late!—oh!"