To begin, tell me, were you innocent or guilty of
the crime for which you are suffering? Is your punishment deserved or
not?"
"Well," replied Henry Dornham, with a sullen frown, "I can just say
this--it is well there are strong bars between us; if there were not you
would not live to ask such another question."
"Will you answer me?" said Lord Arleigh, gently.
"No, I will not--why should I? You belong to a class I hate and
detest--a class of tyrants and oppressors."
"Why should you? I will tell you in a few words. I am interested in the
fate of your wife and daughter."
"My what?" cried the convict, with a look of wonder.
"Your wife and daughter," said Lord Arleigh.
"My daughter!" exclaimed the man. "Good Heaven! Oh, I see! Well, go on.
You are interested in my wife and daughter--what else?"
"There is one thing I can do which would not only be of material benefit
to them, but would make your daughter very happy. It cannot be done
unless we can prove your innocence."
"Poor little Madaline," said the convict, quietly--"poor, pretty little
girl!"
Lord Arleigh's whole soul revolted on hearing this man speak so of his
fair, young wife.
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