Afterwards

ng very white and worn, propped up with pillows. "I have much to say, and I'll take a sup

, and ma work is nearly done. Don't go away, La

nd it's best to speak when a man's head is clear, and I thank

ead with vinegar-for scent he would not have-and Egerton stood on the other, refusing to sit down while she s

nd I havena' known you long, but there's no mon I've liked better or could trust

I hope it may be God's will to spare you and raise you up again," a

, and so we 'ill go to business. And first about ma affairs. I wish ye t

herself, and could feel the silence in the room; but

bright for a young wife, and ma conscience did not allow me liberty in worldly amusements. But acco

ost... kind to me, Jacob. Why speak of such

ve put up with my... peculiarities-for I know you do not think wi' me in things, and

and it occurred to Egerton from a slight flush

have lifted his eyes for a ransom-"and I have left aal to my wife without any condition, with just one legacy. I

, but I... really can't accept your kindness. It is not lik

ok up the pillows hastily, and

ut you will grant me another favour which may be har

, and although I have never said it

eemly." Her voice was

be present, he is our friend, and I am coming to

; ye might be persecuted by men 'at would bring you nowt but trouble and vex

n ye may, to taste some joy, and I would count it unjust to hinder you-peace, lass, till I

d faithful. This speaking is hard on me, but it 'ill soon be done." And as Mrs. Arkw

ome notions I don't hold with, for I'm the owd sort-believe and be saved, believe not and be damned-but ye're no a mon to say yea an

ears, will ye count Laura Arkwright as your sister, and do to h

d waited for an answer. Egerton looked across the bed, but Mrs. Arkwright had withdrawn b

rother to your wi

of content; but when Egerton left the room, Laura refuse