The Works of George W. M. Reynolds — page 67: what you’re looking at

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

50 REYNOLDS’ WORKS Miss Marshall. When, four years ago, I first formed his acquaintance, he was a poor, unknown, struggling advocate at the bar. We were married, and the dower which I brought him, though small, was nevertheless the foundation of his fortune. Therewith he established the journal which became such a power amongst the press, a power, too, amongst the people. It procured him a seat in the Chamber of Dep- uties, and thence the transition was by no means difficult to the elevated post of a minister. To me he owes every- thing; my recompense is — nothing, worse than nothing — it is neglect. Forthree years has our married life lasted; for two years we have occupied separate chambers, — yes, for two years we have been only as friends dwelling beneath the same roof. There has been as much alienation between us — or, rather, on his part toward me — as if no nuptial vows had ever been pronounced. It may seem singular to you, Miss Marshall, that within the first hour of our acquaint- ance I tell you all this; but it is because circumstances have led me into the revelation— And besides,” added the minister’s wife, suddenly looking as if she were ashamed and confused, “‘ there is a project in my mind which may serve the purposes of us both.” “Serve mine? ”’ ejaculated. Kate, eagerly catching, like a drowning creature, at any straw. ‘‘ Do you mean that there is hope of saving the life of him I love? ”’ ‘“ Hope? Yes, every hope,’”’ responded the lady. “ But only if you will be guided by me.” ‘Guided by you?” exclaimed Miss Marshall. “ You are an angel sent to raise me up from despair. Oh, you have but to speak, to give me your instructions, to tell me what to do, and I will follow your counsel in all things.” ‘“* Patience fora moment,” said the lady, “‘ and let me first understand you beyond the possibility of mistake. Deal frankly with me; think not of wounding my feelings by any paintul disclosures. It is necessary that I should learn every- thing which passed between my husband and yourself.” ‘“ Do you indeed insist upon such full and complete rev- elations?’”’ asked Kate. ‘““T do,’ responded the minister’s wife. ‘‘ Again I say, tell me everything. The success of the project which I have in my mind depends upon the accuracy with which you give me these details. Alas! did you not perceive that I only CONNIE OO KS (E(0)