The Works of George W. M. Reynolds — page 178: what you’re looking at

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

THE MASQUERADE DRESS 161 for you to refresh my memory im a single particular. Ed- mund, tell her that you are satisfied, and let this cease.” “Edmund will permit me,’’ continued Adelaide, “ to place matters on such a footing that henceforth he need not fear you. Listen, Lady Saxondale, do not interrupt me. On that evening to which I have alluded, when Lord Harold Staunton addressed me under the impression that he was speaking to you, he made reference to some deed which had mysteriously but terribly knitted your destinies to- gether, and that deed which I comprehended not then, I understand now. Lord Harold Staunton was an inmate of this castle at the time when — ”’ ‘* Adelaide,’ murmured the unhappy Lady Saxondale, the very picture of abject humiliation and despairing wretch- edness, “I have already besought Edmund to spare me: to you do I address the same prayer.”’ - “ You understand, then,’ said Adelaide, coldly im- placable, ‘‘ that you are in my power. Attempt but a renewal of hostilities against us, make but a sign which shall raise a suspicion that you are still full of perfidy, and — ’”’ ‘No more! ’”’ almost shrieked forth the miserable woman, as she started from her chair. ‘‘ lI understand you and I will henceforth be your slave, if you will.” With these words she quitted the room, and repairing to the bedchamber which she was wont to occupy when at the castle, gave way to thoughts and feelings which may perhaps be better understood than described. CONnnNIEOOOKS (FO)