The Works of George W. M. Reynolds — page 320: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

THE SLIREN’S WILES 303 have represented him to be base, who is as noble-hearted as you have depicted him to be depraved, who is as high- principled as you have painted him profligate and dissolute, — it is to him, I say, that you must repeat all you are now saying to me. Indeed, Mrs. Ranger has no doubt informed you that Mr. Loftus requires an interview with you this night. Do you feel disposed to visit him at Doctor Mara- velli’s house? ”’ ‘““ Maravelli’s? ”’ ejaculated Agatha, in a voice of unfeigned horror, as she thought of the dead child, her child, which was there, beneath. that roof. “Yes, at Doctor Maravelli’s,’”’ responded Bergami, “ and not only at his house, but likewise at the solemn hour oi midnight. All three of you must be there; not one must remain away upon any pretence. Do you understand me, and do you agree? ”’ ‘Oh, yes, we accept everything that falls from your lips, as if from the arbiter of our destiny,’ exclaimed Emma, still in that fervid tone of feeling which she knew so well how to assume. “ For my part, I swear to be there.”’ “And I also,” said Julia, “‘ if it will ensure us mercy and forbearance at the hands of Mr. Loftus and yourself.” “Then assuredly I cannot hesitate to declare in the affirmative hkewise,’’ added Agatha, in a faint voice. ‘“ It 1s understood, then,’’ said Bergami, “‘ and I warn you against any hesitation or any neglect in fulfilling the pledge which you have all three given. Ye will go alone through the silence of the night, there are no dangers to apprehend, and ye doubtless know the way thither. Do not attempt to fly from Geneva. I warn you that such an endeavour will prove ineffectual, for I would have you pursued igno- miniously, brought back, and mercilessly handed over to punishment.” “I ean assure you, oh, I can assure you most positively,” said Emma, again catching his arm as if by an involuntary impulse, and looking up into his face with an expression of frightened, deprecating, piteous entreaty, “ that we will obey you to the very letter. Do not, do not mistrust us altogether. Everything that we can do now by way of atone- ment for the past shall be done.” “ Yes, Emma,” exclaimed Agatha, “ plead our cause with Baron Bergami, I am at a loss for words to express all ! CORnNICLOoL cS (C(O) mM