"No, I dare not say I am sure until Ewart himself confirms black and
white--sees that certificate; but I must warn you just the same. It is
my duty."
I drew a longer breath. He was not wholly sure then. There was a
reprieve, meanwhile--
What "meanwhile"? I could not think; but I was aware that the Doctor
was speaking again, thinking for me. I listened apathetically.
"Marcia, I have to leave to-morrow morning. I must leave you with
Cale. Thank God, you have him near you! It has been impressed upon me
that you must be told all this before Ewart gets back. You are a
woman--and your womanhood will dictate, will show you the way out.
Come to me, come to my home--I shall not be there; come now, with Mrs.
Macleod and Jamie. I will wire Ewart that you are with us for a little
while. Get time to breathe, to think things out, to conquer, before he
comes--"
"No." I spoke with decision. I made a physical effort to speak so.
"I shall remain where I am--for a while. I have Cale. When I go, he
goes with me; but, oh, don't, don't say any more--I cannot bear it!"
My words were half prayer, half groan. I felt suddenly weak, sick
throughout my whole body.
"I wish I might bear this for you, dear girl. I had to say it. I
could not let you go on--"
"I know, I know, you did your duty--but don't say anything more."
I held out my hand. "I shall be up in the morning and get your
breakfast; it's so early for you to start. The others won't be up."
"I wish you would," he said eagerly. "I must satisfy myself that you
are up and about before I go, otherwise--" He hesitated.
"Don't worry. I shall be about just the same--only now--"
"I know; you want to be alone--you can bear no more. Good night." He
left the room abruptly.