206
VIVIAN GREY.
"Oh! certainly, by all means. I'll ring for Madeleine. "Madeleine! mind, I'm not at home to any one. Well! what 's the matter?"
"Oh! Madam, I must pray your patience—I wish you to shrive a penitent."
"Good God! Mr. Grey! for Heaven's sake, be explicit."
"For Heaven's sake—for your sake—for my soul's sake, I would be explicit; but explicitness is not the language of such as I am. Can you listen to a tale of horror? Can you promise me to contain yourself?"
"I will promise any thing. Pray, pray proceed."
But in spite of her earnest solicitations, her companion was mute. At length he arose from his chair, and leaning on the chimney-piece, buried his face in his hands, and wept most bitterly.
