Yes, Gertrude, my
beloved--yes, Gertrude, idol of my solitary love--the mystery is about
to end--I'll end it. Be I what I may you know the worst, and have given
me your love and troth--you are my affianced bride; rather than lose
you, I would die; and I think, or I am walking in a dream, I've but to
point my finger against two men, and all will be peace and light--light
and peace--to me long strangers!'
At this moment Aunt Becky's voice was heard at the door, and the flash
of the flambeaux glared on the window. He kissed the hand of the pale
girl hurriedly, and the French cocked-hat and mantle vanished.
In came Aunt Rebecca in a fuss, and it must be said in no very gracious
mood, and rather taciturn and sarcastic; and so away they rumbled over
the old bridge towards Belmont.
CHAPTER LXI.
IN WHICH THE GHOSTS OF A BY-GONE SIN KEEP TRYST.
Devereux, wrapped in his cloak, strode into the park, through
Parson's-gate, up the steep hill, and turned towards Castleknock and the
furze and hawthorn wood that interposes. The wide plain spread before
him in solitude, with the thin vapours of night, lying over it like a
film in the moonlight.
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