I have never been there before. He behaved very kindly. He
said of course he should declare my innocence----"
"And in the same breath assured you no one would believe it? And
advised you to go off with him at once?"
"I know how bad it seems," said Mrs. Hannaford. "And yet, it is all
my own fault--my own long folly. Oh, you must wonder why I have
brought you here to tell you this! It's because there is no one else
I could speak to, as a friend, and I felt I should go mad if I
couldn't ask someone's advice. Of course I could go to a lawyer--
but I mean someone who would sympathise with me. I am not very
strong; you know I have been ill: this blow seems almost more than I
can bear; I thought I would ask you if you could suggest anything--
if you would see him, and try to arrange something." She looked at
Piers distractedly. "Perhaps money would help. My husband has been
having money from me; perhaps if we offered him more? Ought I to see
him, myself? But there is ill-feeling between us; and I fear he
would be glad to injure me, glad!"
"I will see Daniel," said Piers, trying to see hope where reason
told him there was none. "With him, at all events, money can do
much."
"You will? You think you may be able to help me? I am in such terror
when I think of my brother hearing of this. And Irene! Think, if it
becomes public--everyone talking about the disgrace--what will
Irene do? Just at the time of her marriage!" She held out her hands,
pleadingly.
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