At this moment Diego suddenly presented himself, and apologizing for the abruptness of his entrance, accounted for it by saying that Sarah Swarton besought a word with his Lordship. She brought a message, he added, from Lady Roos, who was much worse, and not finding his Lordship at his own residence had ventured to follow him to Exeter House to deliver it. "I will come to her anon," said Lord Roos carelessly. "No, no; admit her at once, Diego," cried the Countess; "I would hear what she has to say." And the next moment Sarah Swarton being ushered into the room, she rushed up to her and eagerly demanded, "How fares it with your lady? Is there any hope for her?" "None whatever," replied Sarah, shaking her head sadly. "She is past all chance of recovery." "Then Heaven pardon me!" ejaculated the Countess, clasping her hands together, and falling upon her knees. Sarah Swarton gazed at her in astonishment; while Lord Roos, rushing towards her, commanded her to rise. "Take heed what you say and do, Countess," he whispered. "You will excite this woman's suspicions." "Why should your ladyship implore Heaven's pardon because my poor dear lady is near her end?" inquired Sarah. "I sue for it because I have caused her much affliction," replied the Countess. "Your message, Sarah--your message?" interposed Lord Roos. "What have you to say to me?" "My lady desires to see you once more before she expires, my lord," replied Sarah. "She would take leave of you; and--and--she has something to impart to you. You will not refuse her last request?" "He will not--he will not, I am sure," cried the Countess, seeing him look irresolute. "I did not expect to be seconded by you, my lady," observed Sarah, in increasing surprise. "Would that I, too, might see her and obtain her forgiveness!" exclaimed the Countess, without heeding the remark. "An idle wish, and not to be indulged," said Lord Roos. A sudden idea appeared to strike Sarah, and she cried, "Your ladyship's desire may possibly be gratified. My poor lady desires to part in peace with all the world, even with those who have injured her. I will communicate your wishes to her, and it may be she will consent to see you." "You shall have a reward well worthy of the service if you accomplish it," said the Countess. "Hasten to her with all speed, my Lord, and I will follow in my litter, ready to attend Sarah's summons." "I like not the plan," rejoined Lord Roos. "You are wrong to go. Why need you see her?" "Why?" she answered, regarding him fixedly. "Because it may be some little consolation to me afterwards." "Then go alone," said Lord Roos savagely. "I will not accompany you." "I do not ask you to accompany me, but to precede me," she replied. "Now, mark me, my Lord," she added in a low, firm tone, "and be assured I do not advance more than I will perform. If you refuse your wife's dying request, I will go back with Sarah and confess all to her."