“It has. I only wish he had killed me outright――then there would have been an end to my misery. As it is there does not appear to be any end to it.” “But you must leave him. It would be worse than madness to remain longer with such a ruffian. How did it occur?” “He came back, much to my surprise, much earlier than usual. He had been drinking heavily, that I saw at a glance, and did all he could to aggravate me; but I was determined not to lose my temper if I could help it. He then got up and searched about the room and opened all the drawers, in one of which he found the silver I had put by to pay Parker two weeks’ rent. He threatened to turn us into the street unless we paid.” “And what then?” “He snatched hold of the paper which contained the money, and was about to thrust it in his pocket, and because I tried to get it from him he became furious. He has beaten me most unmercifully, as you see.” “If you live any longer with this infamous man you will have yourself only to blame. Go away this very night. Do not remain another hour under the same roof with such a diabolical wretch.” “Where can I go?” “Anywhere. Do you suppose that I would remain if I was in your position? Ah, dear, you are too meek and mild. He should have me to deal with.” “You could do nothing with him. Nobody could. He’s past cure, Bessie. At one time I had some hopes of reclaiming him――now I have none.” “He’ll never be any better,” said Bessie Dalton. “That I have seen and known for a long time past. He’s a lost man.” “Ah,” ejaculated Mrs. Bristow; “it was an ill-fated day when I first set eyes upon him. I was warned and cautioned by those who knew him better than I did; but like a fool I was heedless of their warning. I’ve paid the penalty of my obstinacy. Many a time I have prayed to be released from this odious thraldom, while at other times I have contemplated flight. Now I am resolved. I will no longer live with him, not under any circumstances.” “Well spoken. I am glad to hear these words fall from your lips, dear,” said Bessie, putting her arms round the neck of her companion and kissing her fondly. “Your words give me hope and comfort. Do not change your determination. Go this very night. Go at once.” “But look at me. See how I am disfigured! What will people think of me?” “Let them think what they like. Tell the truth; you’ve nothing to be ashamed of.” “I hope not.” “I am sure not. If you remain here you will be murdered. Of that I am as well assured as that he will never reform. I say one day or another you will be murdered. Ah! no, dearest. You most not change your mind upon this. Come, dry your eyes. There, that’s better. You are beginning to look a little more like yourself. Oh! how I should like to have the wretch flogged! I haven’t patience with the monster.” “What have I done that I should be punished thus?” murmured Mrs. Bristow. “You’ve been too easy with him.”