Page:Ethel Churchill 3.pdf/194

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192
ETHEL CHURCHILL.

I have felt ever since I arrived in London. You have never cared for me, or cautioned me against the many dangers which surrounded my vain and heedless career."

"How could I tell that you would turn out so badly?" again he asked.

"Lord Marchmont," cried Henrietta, "there is yet time to save me from utter wretchedness and crime. I am young, very young—forgive me, and my whole life shall be devoted to atone for the past, and to show my gratitude."

"And," answered he, with a sneer, "you will take care not to be found out next time."

"I do not deserve this," said she. "Lord Marchmont, at your feet, I implore your pardon!" and she knelt as she spoke: "give me but one proof of your confidence, and my whole life shall show it has not been given in vain."

"Madam," said he, throwing her from him, "you forget how glad I shall be to get rid of you." So saying, he left the room, and she heard him order supper as he went down stairs.