“Oh, my lady, but it is true now, beyond all doubt, that the wretched man is dead. People don’t get over such _attacks_ twice—the second time it is sure to be fatal—it was so in his case. His body was picked up by the Queen Charlotte. Lord Montressor and Mr. Levering, the man whom Lord Montressor saved, swore to the identity, which was also further proved, if further proof had been necessary, by the papers found on his person, and by the marks on his clothes. His identity was proved and recorded, and he received Christian burial, in the presence of the whole ship’s crew. Lord Montressor and Mr. Levering, among the others, saw his body committed to the deep.” While Susan spoke thus earnestly—solemnly—the ironical, insane incredulity of the listener was lost in conviction and awe. The face of the beautiful Estelle underwent a great and fearful change. She, so pale before, grew still paler, grew livid, while a blue circle darkened around her eyes; she seemed on the verge of swooning, but rallied her powers, and clinging to the arm of her chair for support, inquired in a husky, almost sepulchral voice: “_Is this true?_” “True as Gospel, dear lady! your mortal foe is dead.” “Then may the Lord have mercy on his soul! for he greatly needed mercy,” said Lady Montressor, solemnly. There was a pause of some half hour, during which Lady Montressor covered her face, and remained in deep thought and prayer, and then the lady spoke: “Susan, you may take the walk I advised, and while you are out go down to the Ocean House, and see Miss Brande, and let her know that I have fully decided on taking the lease of the Headland, and that if she will have the documents drawn up to-day, I will immediately conclude the business.” Susan looked disappointed and distressed, and did not move to obey. “Did you hear my order, Susan?” “Yes, madam, I heard: pardon me; but, dearest lady, dearest mistress, will not what I have just told you affect your resolution?” “In what respect?” “In respect of your retiring from the world to that lonely sea-coast.” “Why should it?” “Dearest lady, pardon me! pardon one who loves you more than her own life, for speaking upon this subject; but remember now that you are free forever from all possibility of annoyance from that haunting man; remember now that happiness is within your grasp.” “Susan, forbear!”