"And was it for the purpose of giving me such advice as _this_, that you accompanied me from Philadelphia to this city? You knew, all the while, the object of my journey, and yet now, in the eleventh hour, when an excellent opportunity presents itself for the accomplishment of that object, you seek to dissuade me from my purpose. Have I entirely mistaken your character? Are you really as weak-minded, and as devoid of courage and spirit, as your language would seem to indicate? When that young ruffian mutilated you in Philadelphia, didn't you consider that you acted perfectly right? Well, this Livingston has destroyed the happiness of my life, and transformed me from a lady of wealth into a penniless beggar. Say does he not deserve to _die_?" "Why--yes," was my reluctant reply--"but then it seems too terrible to go about the horrible business deliberately, and in cold blood." "He coolly and deliberately planned and effected the ruin of my peace, happiness and fortune," rejoined Mrs. Raymond, in a tone of fixed determination--"and it is therefore but just that he should be coolly and deliberately slain. Once more, farewell; by everything sacred, I swear that you shall not turn me from my purpose. My regard for you is great--but, if you seek to detain me by force, your heart shall be made acquainted with the point of my knife!" "I have no idea of using force," said I, reproachfully--"but, if I _had_, no such threat as the one which you have just now made, would deter me. Go, my friend, go--do as you will; but I will go with you, for I swear that I will not leave you." This announcement deeply affected Mrs. Raymond, who embraced me and begged my pardon for the language which she had used. "Forgive me, my best, my only friend," said she--"the loyalty and devotion which you have always manifested towards me should have prompted different expressions.--If you are _determined_ to accompany me, and see me through this business, _follow me_." I obeyed, hoping to be able to prevent the perpetration of the terrible deed which she meditated. She rang the bell at the door, which was opened by a servant. "I wish to see your master, instantly, on particular business," said the disguised woman. "What name, sir?" demanded the servant. "It matters not. Say to Mr. Livingston that two gentlemen wish to see him on business of the greatest importance." The servant disappeared, but soon returned, saying that she would conduct us to her master. We followed her into a handsomely furnished library, where Mr. Livingston was seated, looking over some letters. He glanced at us carelessly, and said-- "Well, young gentlemen, what can I do for you to-day? Do you wish to consult me on any matter of law? I am entirely at your service." It was evident that the villain did not recognize the woman whom he had so basely wronged.