“‘What is it, Morag?’ he asked in a quiet steady voice—‘Death?’
“‘Yes,’ I said. ‘Death.’
“Then he suddenly fell forward, and snatched my hand, and begged me to forgive him, swearing that he had loved me and me only, and imploring me to believe him, to love him, to … Ah, the hound!
“But all I said was this:
“‘Jasper Morgan, soon or late I would kill you, because of this cruel wrong you did to her. But there is one way: best for her … best for me … best for you.’
“‘What is that?’ he said hoarsely, though I think he knew now. The roar of the Gorromalt Water filled the night.
“‘There is one way. It is the only way … Go!’
“He gave a deep quavering sigh. Then without word he turned, and walked straight into the darkness.”
Morag paused here. Then, in answer to my frightened whisper, she added simply: