He had just heard from Dorothy of their proposed flight, and came to inquire further about it.
“Has your lordship any instructions to give me?” he said.
“None whatever,” replied the earl. “I know you will ever watch over the countess during my absence—and if aught happens, console her.”
“I will teach her how to bear her affliction,” replied the priest. “Perchance this may be your last interview,” he added, looking steadily at the countess. “Have you aught to communicate to your husband?”
“We have never had any secrets from each other, good father,” said the earl. “Is it not so, sweetheart?”
The countess made no reply.
A slight pause ensued, after which the earl said:
“Am I to understand you have a secret from me?” Another pause ensued, which was broken by the countess.
“Tell him all, father,” she cried. “I cannot.”
“What is this?” exclaimed the earl, astonished, and looking at the priest for an explanation. “What have you to tell me?”