I now determined to put it in Sibella's own power to demand an explanation of her uncle. Again, but without my hermit's disguise, I crossed the moat and ascended the rock. When I approached her in the wood, she looked on me sorrowfully; but, Miss Ashburn, there was no welcome in her eye. I had neither power nor inclination to hold her long in conversation. I briefly related to her my suspicions: and as I told you before, she bade me wait her return in the cell. She returned no more. Have I then seen her for the last time?--I sicken. Never, never, never, to behold her!--Oh for a potion, powerful in its nature, rapid in its effect, that would overwhelm these dregs of existence, giving me but time to know the relief of dying when life has become hateful! * * * * * In continuation The carriage, in which I instantly return to Barlowe Hall, stands waiting before my window. I do not fly through fear; but if Mr. Valmont knows my secret visits, and punishes her for my faults, he may release her when I am gone. Write to me, I beseech you, Miss Ashburn, and say why Sibella suffers. She is a prisoner, madam. She has quarrelled with her uncle. It is said he struck her.--Heaven forbid! It is said she attempted suicide!--But she will tell you all; and for pity's sake relieve my suspence, though you cannot quell my anxiety! Respectfully your's A. MURDEN _P.S._ My authority is derived from John Thomas.--He was not, nor is any person but the family, suffered to cross the draw-bridge. All the servants have been interrogated, and some discharged, for the supposed admission of a stranger. Sibella is not allowed to quit her apartment. LETTER VII FROM LORD FILMAR TO SIR WALTER BOYER To the last hour I have lingered here, sometimes in hope, sometimes in fear, still bold in plan, but irresolute in attempt; and now, when the sun of my success begins to beam upon me, now must I come to London, to sign deeds to my shame and to pay money for my folly. Yet, Walter, though I _must_ come to London, hither I mean to return again; for, as I told you before, the sun of my success begins to shine. Know, dear knight, that things are all _en train_. We are in great alarm, great inquietude, and considerable trepidation: but as you may not be perfectly able of yourself to reconcile these assertions, be patient while I lend you my assistance. Yesterday (being about to quit the country to-day) I thought proper to pay a visit of duty to my uncle elect. My footman rode up, and sounded the bell of approach.--Roar, said the shaggy Cerberus on the other side of the moat; while the leaden-headed porter, crawling out of his den, bawled out for our business. 'My Lord Filmar to visit Mr. Valmont,' answered George. The porter walked away.--'D--n the fellow,' said I, 'he has not let down the bridge!'--'No, my Lord,'--replied George: and then I swore again.