And he mentioned the existing betrothal as the
very reason why Clara should remain here in the care of her future
mother-in-law."
"Then, sir, that the doctor should have spoken and acted thus, is
only another and a stronger reason for believing him to have been
deranged in his last moments! You need give yourself no farther
trouble! I shall act upon the authority of this instrument which I
hold in my hand," replied Colonel Le Noir, haughtily.
"Then, as the depository of the dying man's last wishes and as the
next friend of his injured daughter, I shall make an appeal to the
Orphans' Court," said Doctor Williams, coldly.
"You can do as you please about that; but in the mean time, acting
upon the authority of the will, I shall to-morrow morning set out
with my ward for my own home."
"There may be time to arrest that journey," said Doctor Williams,
arising and taking his hat to go.
In the passage he met Mrs. Rocke.
"Dear Doctor Williams," said Mrs. Rocke, earnestly, "pray come up to
poor Clara's room and speak to her, if you can possibly say anything
to comfort her; she is weeping herself into a fit of illness at the
bare thought of being, so soon after her dreadful bereavement, torn
away from her home and friends."
"Tut! tut! no use in weeping! all will yet be right."
"You have persuaded that man to permit her to remain here, then?"
said Marah, gladly.
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