———— So, begone!
We will not now be troubled with reply;
We offer fair, take it advisedly.
King Henry IV. Part I.
It had been the purpose of Tyrrel, by rising and breakfasting early, to avoid again meeting Mr. Touchwood, having upon his hands a matter in which that officious gentleman’s interference was likely to prove troublesome. His character, he was aware, had been assailed3 at the Spa in the most public manner, and in the most public manner he was resolved to demand redress4, conscious that whatever other important concerns had brought him to Scotland, must necessarily be postponed5 to the vindication6 of his honour. He was determined7, for this purpose, to go down to the rooms when the company was assembled at the breakfast hour, and had just taken his hat to set out, when he was interrupted by Mrs. Dods, who, announcing “a gentleman that was speering for him,” ushered8 into the chamber9 a very fashionable young man in a military surtout, covered with silk lace and fur, and wearing a foraging-cap; a dress now too familiar to be distinguished10, but which at that time was used only by geniuses of a superior order. The stranger was neither handsome nor plain, but had in his appearance a good deal of pretension11, and the cool easy superiority which belongs to high breeding. On his part, he surveyed Tyrrel; and, as his appearance differed, perhaps, from that for which the exterior12 of the Cleikum Inn had prepared him, he abated13 something of the air with which he had entered the room, and politely announced himself as Captain Jekyl, of the —— Guards, (presenting, at the same time, his ticket.)
“He presumed he spoke14 to Mr. Martigny?”
“To Mr. Francis Tyrrel, sir,” replied Tyrrel, drawing himself up —“Martigny was my mother’s name — I have never borne it.”
“I am not here for the purpose of disputing that point, Mr. Tyrrel, though I am not entitled to admit what my principal’s information leads him to doubt.”
“Your principal, I presume, is Sir Bingo Binks?” said Tyrrel. “I have not forgotten that there is an unfortunate affair between us.”
“I have not the honour to know Sir Bingo Binks,” said Captain Jekyl. “I come on the part of the Earl of Etherington.”
Tyrrel stood silent for a moment, and then said, “I am at a loss to know what the gentleman who calls himself Earl of Etherington can have to say to me, through the medium of such a messenger as yourself, Captain Jekyl. I should have supposed that, considering our unhappy relationship, and the terms on which we stand towards each other, the lawyers were the fitter negotiators between us.”
“Sir,” said Captain Jekyl, “you are misunderstanding my errand. I am come on no message of hostile import from Lord Etherington — I am aware of the connexion betwixt you, which would render such an office altogether contradictory16 to common sense and the laws of nature; and I assure you, I would lay down my life rather than be concerned in an affair so unnatural17. I would act, if possible, as a mediator18 betwixt you.”
They had hitherto remained standing15. Mr. Tyrrel now offered his guest a seat; and, having assumed one himself, he broke the awkward pause which ensued by observing, “I should be happy, after experiencing such a long course of injustice19 and persecution20 from your friend, to learn, even at this late period, Captain Jekyl, any thing which can make me think better, either of him, or of his purpose towards me and towards others.”
“Mr. Tyrrel,” said Captain Jekyl, “you must allow me to speak with candour. There is too great a stake betwixt your brother and you to permit you to be friends; but I do not see it is necessary that you should therefore be mortal enemies.”
“I am not my brother’s enemy, Captain Jekyl,” said Tyrrel —“I have never been so — His friend I cannot be, and he knows but too well the insurmountable barrier which his own conduct has placed between us.”
“I am aware,” said Captain Jekyl, slowly and expressively21, “generally, at least, of the particulars of your unfortunate disagreement.”
“If so,” said Tyrrel, colouring, “you must be also aware with what extreme pain I feel myself compelled to enter on such a subject with a total stranger — a stranger, too, the friend and confidant of one who —— But I will not hurt your feelings, Captain Jekyl, but rather endeavour to suppress my own. In one word, I beg to be favoured with the import of your communication, as I am obliged to go down to the Spa this morning, in order to put to rights some matters there which concern me nearly.”
“If you mean the cause of your absence from an appointment with Sir Bingo Binks,” said Captain Jekyl, “the matter has been already completely explained. I pulled down the offensive placard with my own hand, and rendered myself responsible for your honour to any one who should presume to hold it in future doubt.”
“Sir,” said Tyrrel, very much surprised, “I am obliged to you for your intention, the more so as I am ignorant how I have merited such interference. It is not, however, quite satisfactory to me, because I am accustomed to be the guardian22 of my own honour.”
“An easy task, I presume, in all cases, Mr. Tyrrel,” answered Jekyl, “but peculiarly so in the present, when you will find no one so hardy23 as to assail2 it. — My interference, indeed, would have been unjustifiably officious, had I not been at the moment undertaking24 a commission implying confidential25 intercourse26 with you. For the sake of my own character, it became necessary to establish yours. I know the truth of the whole affair from my friend, the Earl of Etherington, who ought to thank Heaven so long as he lives, that saved him on that occasion from the commission of a very great crime.”
“Your friend, sir, has had, in the course of his life, much to thank Heaven for, but more for which to ask God’s forgiveness.”
“I am no divine, sir,” replied Captain Jekyl, with spirit; “but I have been told that the same may be said of most men alive.”
“I, at least, cannot dispute it,” said Tyrrel; “but, to proceed. — Have you found yourself at liberty, Captain Jekyl, to deliver to the public the whole particulars of a rencontre so singular as that which took place between your friend and me?”
“I have not, sir,” said Jekyl —“I judged it a matter of great delicacy27, and which each of you had the like interest to preserve secret.”
“May I beg to know, then,” said Tyrrel, “how it was possible for you to vindicate28 my absence from Sir Bingo’s rendezvous29 otherwise?”
“It was only necessary, sir, to pledge my word as a gentleman and a man of honour, characters in which I am pretty well known to the world, that, to my certain personal knowledge, you were hurt in an affair with a friend of mine, the further particulars of which prudence30 required should be sunk into oblivion. I think no one will venture to dispute my word, or to require more than my assurance. — If there should be any one very hard of faith on the occasion, I shall find a way to satisfy him. In the meanwhile, your outlawry31 has been rescinded32 in the most honourable33 manner; and Sir Bingo, in consideration of his share in giving rise to reports so injurious to you, is desirous to drop all further proceedings34 in his original quarrel, and hopes the whole matter will be forgot and forgiven on all sides.”
“Upon my word, Captain Jekyl,” answered Tyrrel, “you lay me under the necessity of acknowledging obligation to you. You have cut a knot which I should have found it very difficult to unloose; for I frankly35 confess, that, while I was determined not to remain under the stigma36 put upon me, I should have had great difficulty in clearing myself, without mentioning circumstances, which, were it only for the sake of my father’s memory, should be buried in eternal oblivion. I hope your friend feels no continued inconvenience from his hurt?”
“His lordship is nearly quite recovered,” said Jekyl.
“And I trust he did me the justice to own, that, so far as my will was concerned, I am totally guiltless of the purpose of hurting him?”
“He does you full justice in that and every thing else,” replied Jekyl; “regrets the impetuosity of his own temper, and is determined to be on his guard against it in future.”
“That,” said Tyrrel, “is so far well; and now, may I ask once more, what communication you have to make to me on the part of your friend? — Were it from any one but him, whom I have found so uniformly false and treacherous38, your own fairness and candour would induce me to hope that this unnatural quarrel might be in some sort ended by your mediation.”
“I then proceed, sir, under more favourable39 auspices40 than I expected,” said Captain Jekyl, “to enter on my commission. — You are about to commence a lawsuit41, Mr. Tyrrel, if fame does not wrong you, for the purpose of depriving your brother of his estate and title.”
“The case is not fairly stated, Captain Jekyl,” replied Tyrrel; “I commence a lawsuit, when I do commence it, for the sake of ascertaining42 my own just rights.”
“It comes to the same thing eventually,” said the mediator; “I am not called upon to decide upon the justice of your claims, but they are, you will allow, newly started. The late Countess of Etherington died in possession — open and undoubted possession — of her rank in society.”
“If she had no real claim to it, sir,” replied Tyrrel, “she had more than justice who enjoyed it so long; and the injured lady whose claims were postponed, had just so much less. — But this is no point for you and me to discuss between us — it must be tried elsewhere.”
“Proofs, sir, of the strongest kind, will be necessary to overthrow43 a right so well established in public opinion as that of the present possessor of the title of Etherington.”
Tyrrel took a paper from his pocketbook, and, handing it to Captain Jekyl, only answered, “I have no thoughts of asking you to give up the cause of your friend; but methinks the documents of which I give you a list, may shake your opinion of it.”
Captain Jekyl read, muttering to himself, “‘Certificate of marriage, by the Rev44. Zadock Kemp, chaplain to the British Embassy at Paris, between Marie de Bellroche, Comptesse de Martigny, and the Right Honourable John Lord Oakendale — Letters between John Earl of Etherington and his lady, under the title of Madame de Martigny — Certificate of baptism — Declaration of the Earl of Etherington on his death-bed.’— All this is very well — but may I ask you, Mr. Tyrrel, if it is really your purpose to go to extremity45 with your brother?”
“He has forgot that he is one — he has lifted his hand against my life.”
“You have shed his blood — twice shed it,” said Jekyl; “the world will not ask which brother gave the offence, but which received, which inflicted46, the severest wound.”
“Your friend has inflicted one on me, sir,” said Tyrrel, “that will bleed while I have the power of memory.”
“I understand you, sir,” said Captain Jekyl; “you mean the affair of Miss Mowbray?”
“Spare me on that subject, sir!” said Tyrrel. “Hitherto I have disputed my most important rights — rights which involved my rank in society, my fortune, the honour of my mother — with something like composure; but do not say more on the topic you have touched upon, unless you would have before you a madman! — Is it possible for you, sir, to have heard even the outline of this story, and to imagine that I can ever reflect on the cold-blooded and most inhuman47 stratagem48, which this friend of yours prepared for two unfortunates, without”— He started up, and walked impetuously to and fro. “Since the Fiend himself interrupted the happiness of perfect innocence49, there was never such an act of treachery — never such schemes of happiness destroyed — never such inevitable50 misery51 prepared for two wretches52 who had the idiocy54 to repose55 perfect confidence in him! — Had there been passion in his conduct, it had been the act of a man — a wicked man, indeed, but still a human creature, acting56 under the influence of human feelings — but his was the deed of a calm, cold, calculating demon57, actuated by the basest and most sordid58 motives59 of self-interest, joined, as I firmly believe, to an early and inveterate60 hatred61 of one whose claims he considered as at variance62 with his own.”
“I am sorry to see you in such a temper,” said Captain Jekyl, calmly; “Lord Etherington, I trust, acted on very different motives than those you impute63 to him; and if you will but listen to me, perhaps something may be struck out which may accommodate these unhappy disputes.”
“Sir,” said Tyrrel, sitting down again, “I will listen to you with calmness, as I would remain calm under the probe of a surgeon tenting a festered wound. But when you touch me to the quick, when you prick64 the very nerve, you cannot expect me to endure without wincing65.”
“I will endeavour, then, to be as brief in the operation as I can,” replied Captain Jekyl, who possessed66 the advantage of the most admirable composure during the whole conference. “I conclude, Mr. Tyrrel, that the peace, happiness, and honour of Miss Mowbray, are dear to you?”
“Who dare impeach67 her honour!” said Tyrrel, fiercely; then checking himself, added, in a more moderate tone, but one of deep feeling, “they are dear to me, sir, as my eyesight.”
“My friend holds them in equal regard,” said the Captain; “and has come to the resolution of doing her the most ample justice.”
“He can do her justice no otherwise, than by ceasing to haunt this neighbourhood, to think, to speak, even to dream of her.”
“Lord Etherington thinks otherwise,” said Captain Jekyl; “he believes that if Miss Mowbray has sustained any wrong at his hands, which, of course, I am not called upon to admit, it will be best repaired by the offer to share with her his title, his rank, and his fortune.”
“His title, rank, and fortune, sir, are as much a falsehood as he is himself,” said Tyrrel, with violence —“Marry Clara Mowbray? never!”
“My friend’s fortune, you will observe,” replied Jekyl, “does not rest entirely68 upon the event of the lawsuit with which you, Mr. Tyrrel, now threaten him. — Deprive him, if you can, of the Oakendale estate, he has still a large patrimony69 by his mother; and besides, as to his marriage with Clara Mowbray, he conceives, that unless it should be the lady’s wish to have the ceremony repeated to which he is most desirous to defer70 his own opinion, they have only to declare that it has already passed between them.”
“A trick, sir!” said Tyrrel, “a vile71 infamous72 trick! of which the lowest wretch53 in Newgate would be ashamed — the imposition of one person for another.”
“Of that, Mr. Tyrrel, I have seen no evidence whatever. The clergyman’s certificate is clear — Francis Tyrrel is united to Clara Mowbray in the holy bands of wedlock73 — such is the tenor74 — there is a copy — nay75, stop one instant, if you please, sir. You say there was an imposition in the case — I have no doubt but you speak what you believe, and what Miss Mowbray told you. She was surprised — forced in some measure from the husband she had just married — ashamed to meet her former lover, to whom, doubtless, she had made many a vow76 of love, and ne’er a true one — what wonder that, unsupported by her bridegroom, she should have changed her tone, and thrown all the blame of her own inconstancy on the absent swain? — A woman, at a pinch so critical, will make the most improbable excuse, rather than be found guilty on her own confession77.”
“There must be no jesting in this case,” said Tyrrel, his cheek becoming pale, and his voice altered with passion.
“I am quite serious, sir,” replied Jekyl; “and there is no law court in Britain that would take the lady’s word — all she has to offer, and that in her own cause — against a whole body of evidence direct and circumstantial, showing that she was by her own free consent married to the gentleman who now claims her hand. — Forgive me, sir — I see you are much agitated78 — I do not mean to dispute your right of believing what you think is most credible80 — I only use the freedom of pointing out to you the impression which the evidence is likely to make on the minds of indifferent persons.”
“Your friend,” answered Tyrrel, affecting a composure, which, however, he was far from possessing, “may think by such arguments to screen his villainy; but it cannot avail him — the truth is known to Heaven — it is known to me — and there is, besides, one indifferent witness upon earth, who can testify that the most abominable82 imposition was practised on Miss Mowbray.”
“You mean her cousin — Hannah Irwin, I think, is her name,” answered Jekyl; “you see I am fully83 acquainted with all the circumstances of the case. But where is Hannah Irwin to be found?”
“She will appear, doubtless, in Heaven’s good time, and to the confusion of him who now imagines the only witness of his treachery — the only one who could tell the truth of this complicated mystery — either no longer lives, or, at least, cannot be brought forward against him, to the ruin of his schemes. Yes, sir, that slight observation of yours has more than explained to me why your friend, or, to call him by his true name, Mr. Valentine Bulmer, has not commenced his machinations sooner, and also why he has commenced them now. He thinks himself certain that Hannah Irwin is not now in Britain, or to be produced in a court of justice — he may find himself mistaken.”
“My friend seems perfectly84 confident of the issue of his cause,” answered Jekyl; “but for the lady’s sake, he is most unwilling85 to prosecute86 a suit which must be attended with so many circumstances of painful exposure.”
“Exposure, indeed!” answered Tyrrel; “thanks to the traitor87 who laid a mine so fearful, and who now affects to be reluctant to fire it. — Oh! how I am bound to curse that affinity88 that restrains my hands! I would be content to be the meanest and vilest89 of society, for one hour of vengeance90 on this unexampled hypocrite! — One thing is certain, sir — your friend will have no living victim. His persecution will kill Clara Mowbray, and fill up the cup of his crimes, with the murder of one of the sweetest —— I shall grow a woman, if I say more on the subject!”
“My friend,” said Jekyl, “since you like best to have him so defined, is as desirous as you can be to spare the lady’s feelings; and with that view, not reverting91 to former passages, he has laid before her brother a proposal of alliance, with which Mr. Mowbray is highly pleased.”
“Ha!” said Tyrrel, starting —“And the lady?”—
“And the lady so far proved favourable, as to consent that Lord Etherington shall visit Shaws-Castle.”
“Her consent must have been extorted93!” exclaimed Tyrrel.
“It was given voluntarily,” said Jekyl, “as I am led to understand; unless, perhaps, in so far as the desire to veil these very unpleasing transactions may have operated, I think naturally enough, to induce her to sink them in eternal secrecy94, by accepting Lord Etherington’s hand. — I see, sir, I give you pain, and am sorry for it. — I have no title to call upon you for any exertion95 of generosity96; but, should such be Miss Mowbray’s sentiments, is it too much to expect of you, that you will not compromise the lady’s honour by insisting upon former claims, and opening up disreputable transactions so long past?”
“Captain Jekyl,” said Tyrrel, solemnly, “I have no claims. Whatever I might have had, were cancelled by the act of treachery through which your friend endeavoured too successfully to supplant97 me. Were Clara Mowbray as free from her pretended marriage as law could pronounce her, still with me — me, at least, of all men in the world — the obstacle must ever remain, that the nuptial98 benediction99 has been pronounced over her, and the man whom I must for once call brother.”— He stopped at that word, as if it had cost him agony to pronounce it, and then resumed:—“No, sir, I have no views of personal advantage in this matter — they have been long annihilated100 — But I will not permit Clara Mowbray to become the wife of a villain81 — I will watch over her with thoughts as spotless as those of her guardian angel. I first persuaded her to quit the path of dutyE9 — I, of all men who live, am bound to protect her from the misery — from the guilt37 — which must attach to her as this man’s wife. I will never believe that she wishes it — I will never believe, that in calm mind and sober reason, she can be brought to listen to such a guilty proposal. — But her mind — alas101! — is not of the firm texture102 it once could boast; and your friend knows well how to press on the spring of every passion that can agitate79 and alarm her. Threats of exposure may extort92 her consent to this most unfitting match, if they do not indeed drive her to suicide, which I think the most likely termination. I will, therefore, be strong where she is weak. — Your friend, sir, must at least strip his proposals of their fine gilding103. I will satisfy Mr. Mowbray of St. Ronan’s of his false pretences104, both to rank and fortune; and I rather think he will protect his sister against the claim of a needy105 profligate106, though he might be dazzled with the alliance of a wealthy peer.”
“Your cause, sir, is not yet won,” answered Jekyl; “and when it is, your brother will retain property enough to entitle him to marry a greater match than Miss Mowbray, besides the large estate of Nettlewood, to which that alliance must give him right. But I would wish to make some accommodation between you if it were possible. You profess107, Mr. Tyrrel, to lay aside all selfish wishes and views in this matter, and to look entirely to Miss Mowbray’s safety and happiness?”
“Such, upon my honour, is the exclusive purpose of my interference — I would give all I am worth to procure108 her an hour of quiet — for happiness she will never know again.”
“Your anticipations109 of Miss Mowbray’s distress,” said Jekyl, “are, I understand, founded upon the character of my friend. You think him a man of light principle, and because he overreached you in a juvenile110 intrigue111, you conclude that now, in his more steady and advanced years, the happiness of the lady in whom you are so much interested ought not to be trusted to him?”
“There may be other grounds,” said Tyrrel, hastily; “but you may argue upon those you have named, as sufficient to warrant my interference.”
“How, then, if I should propose some accommodation of this nature? Lord Etherington does not pretend to the ardour of a passionate112 lover. He lives much in the world, and has no desire to quit it. Miss Mowbray’s health is delicate — her spirits variable — and retirement113 would most probably be her choice. — Suppose — I am barely putting a supposition — suppose that a marriage between two persons so circumstanced were rendered necessary or advantageous114 to both — suppose that such a marriage were to secure to one party a large estate — were to insure the other against all the consequences of an unpleasant exposure — still, both ends might be obtained by the mere115 ceremony of marriage passing between them. There might be a previous contract of separation, with suitable provisions for the lady, and stipulations, by which the husband should renounce116 all claim to her society. Such things happen every season, if not on the very marriage day, yet before the honeymoon117 is over. — Wealth and freedom would be the lady’s, and as much rank as you, sir, supposing your claims just, may think proper to leave them.”
There was a long pause, during which Tyrrel underwent many changes of countenance118, which Jekyl watched carefully, without pressing him for an answer. At length he replied, “There is much in your proposal, Captain Jekyl, which I might be tempted119 to accede120 to, as one manner of unloosing this Gordian knot, and a compromise by which Miss Mowbray’s future tranquillity121 would be in some degree provided for. But I would rather trust a fanged122 adder123 than your friend, unless I saw him fettered124 by the strongest ties of interest. Besides, I am certain the unhappy lady could never survive the being connected with him in this manner, though but for the single moment when they should appear together at the altar. There are other objections”——
He checked himself, paused, and then proceeded in a calm and self-possessed tone. “You think, perhaps, even yet, that I have some selfish and interested views in this business; and probably you may feel yourself entitled to entertain the same suspicion towards me, which I avowedly125 harbour respecting every proposition which originates with your friend. — I cannot help it — I can but meet these disadvantageous impressions with plain dealing126 and honesty; and it is in the spirit of both that I make a proposition to you. — Your friend is attached to rank, fortune, and worldly advantages, in the usual proportion, at least, in which they are pursued by men of the world — this you must admit, and I will not offend you by supposing more.”
“I know few people who do not desire such advantages,” answered Captain Jekyl; “and I frankly own, that he affects no particular degree of philosophic127 indifference128 respecting them.”
“Be it so,” answered Tyrrel. “Indeed, the proposal you have just made indicates that his pretended claim on this young lady’s hand is entirely, or almost entirely, dictated129 by motives of interest, since you are of opinion that he would be contented130 to separate from her society on the very marriage day, provided that, in doing so, he was assured of the Nettlewood property.”
“My proposition was unauthorized by my principal,” answered Jekyl; “but it is needless to deny, that its very tenor implies an idea, on my part, that Lord Etherington is no passionate lover.”
“Well then,” answered Tyrrel. “Consider, sir, and let him consider well, that the estate and rank he now assumes, depend upon my will and pleasure — that, if I prosecute the claims of which that scroll131 makes you aware, he must descend132 from the rank of an earl into that of a commoner, stripped of by much the better half of his fortune — a diminution133 which would be far from compensated134 by the estate of Nettlewood, even if he could obtain it, which could only be by means of a lawsuit, precarious135 in the issue, and most dishonourable in its very essence.”
“Well, sir,” replied Jekyl, “I perceive your argument — What is your proposal?”
“That I will abstain136 from prosecuting137 my claim on those honours and that property — that I will leave Valentine Bulmer in possession of his usurped138 title and ill-deserved wealth — that I will bind139 myself under the strongest penalties never to disturb his possession of the Earldom of Etherington and estates belonging to it — on condition that he allows the woman, whose peace of mind he has ruined for ever, to walk through the world in her wretchedness, undisturbed either by his marriage-suit, or by any claim founded upon his own most treacherous conduct — in short, that he forbear to molest140 Clara Mowbray, either by his presence, word, letter, or through the intervention141 of a third party, and be to her in future as if he did not exist.”
“This is a singular offer,” said the Captain; “may I ask if you are serious in making it?”
“I am neither surprised nor offended at the question,” said Tyrrel. “I am a man, sir, like others, and affect no superiority to that which all men desire the possession of — a certain consideration and station in society. I am no romantic fool to undervalue the sacrifice I am about to make. I renounce a rank, which is and ought to be the more valuable to me, because it involves (he blushed as he spoke) the fame of an honoured mother — because, in failing to claim it, I disobey the commands of a dying father, who wished that by doing so I should declare to the world the penitence142 which hurried him perhaps to the grave, and the making which public he considered might be some atonement for his errors. From an honoured place in the land, I descend voluntarily to become a nameless exile; for, once certain that Clara Mowbray’s peace is assured, Britain no longer holds me. — All this I do, sir, not in any idle strain of overheated feeling, but seeing, and knowing, and dearly valuing, every advantage which I renounce — yet I do it, and do it willingly, rather than be the cause of farther evil to one, on whom I have already brought too — too much.”
His voice, in spite of his exertions143, faltered144 as he concluded the sentence, and a big drop which rose to his eye, required him for the moment to turn towards the window.
“I am ashamed of this childishness,” he said, turning again to Captain Jekyl; “if it excites your ridicule145, sir, let it be at least a proof of my sincerity146.”
“I am far from entertaining such sentiments,” said Jekyl, respectfully — for, in a long train of fashionable follies147, his heart had not been utterly148 hardened —“very far, indeed. To a proposal so singular as yours, I cannot be expected to answer — except thus far — the character of the peerage is, I believe, indelible, and cannot be resigned or assumed at pleasure. If you are really Earl of Etherington, I cannot see how your resigning the right may avail my friend.”
“You, sir, it might not avail,” said Tyrrel, gravely, “because you, perhaps, might scorn to exercise a right, or hold a title, that was not legally yours. But your friend will have no such compunctious visitings. If he can act the Earl to the eye of the world, he has already shown that his honour and conscience will be easily satisfied.”
“May I take a copy of the memorandum149 containing this list of documents,” said Captain Jekyl, “for the information of my constituent150?”
“The paper is at your pleasure, sir,” replied Tyrrel; “it is itself but a copy. — But Captain Jekyl,” he added, with a sarcastic151 expression, “is, it would seem, but imperfectly let into his friend’s confidence — he may be assured his principal is completely acquainted with the contents of this paper, and has accurate copies of the deeds to which it refers.”
“I think it scarce possible,” said Jekyl, angrily.
“Possible and certain!” answered Tyrrel. “My father, shortly preceding his death, sent me — with a most affecting confession of his errors — this list of papers, and acquainted me that he had made a similar communication to your friend. That he did so I have no doubt, however Mr. Bulmer may have thought proper to disguise the circumstance in communication with you. One circumstance, among others, stamps at once his character, and confirms me of the danger he apprehended152 by my return to Britain. He found means, through a scoundrelly agent, who had made me the usual remittances153 from my father while alive, to withhold154 those which were necessary for my return from the Levant, and I was obliged to borrow from a friend.”
“Indeed?” replied Jekyl. “It is the first time I have heard of these papers — May I enquire155 where the originals are, and in whose custody156?”
“I was in the East,” answered Tyrrel, “during my father’s last illness, and these papers were by him deposited with a respectable commercial house, with which he was connected. They were enclosed in a cover directed to me, and that again in an envelope, addressed to the principal person in their firm.”
“You must be sensible,” said Captain Jekyl, “that I can scarcely decide on the extraordinary offer which you have been pleased to make, of resigning the claim founded on these documents, unless I had a previous opportunity of examining them.”
“You shall have that opportunity — I will write to have them sent down by the post — they lie but in small compass.”
“This, then,” said the Captain, “sums up all that can be said at present. — Supposing these proofs to be of unexceptionable authenticity157, I certainly would advise my friend Etherington to put to sleep a claim so important as yours, even at the expense of resigning his matrimonial speculation158 — I presume you design to abide159 by your offer?”
“I am not in the habit of altering my mind — still less of retracting160 my word,” said Tyrrel, somewhat haughtily161.
“We part friends, I hope?” said Jekyl, rising, and taking his leave.
“Not enemies certainly, Captain Jekyl. I will own to you I owe you my thanks, for extricating162 me from that foolish affair at the Well — nothing could have put me to more inconvenience than the necessity of following to extremity a frivolous163 quarrel at the present moment.”
“You will come down among us, then?” said Jekyl.
“I certainly shall not wish to appear to hide myself,” answered Tyrrel; “it is a circumstance might be turned against me — there is a party who will avail himself of every advantage. I have but one path, Captain Jekyl — that of truth and honour.”
Captain Jekyl bowed, and took his leave. So soon as he was gone, Tyrrel locked the door of the apartment, and drawing from his bosom164 a portrait, gazed on it with a mixture of sorrow and tenderness, until the tears dropped from his eye.
It was the picture of Clara Mowbray, such as he had known her in the days of their youthful love, and taken by himself, whose early turn for painting had already developed itself. The features of the blooming girl might be yet traced in the fine countenance of the more matured original. But what was now become of the glow which had shaded her cheek? — what of the arch, yet subdued165 pleasantry, which lurked166 in the eye? — what of the joyous167 content, which composed every feature to the expression of an Euphrosyne? — Alas! these were long fled! — Sorrow had laid his hand upon her — the purple light of youth was quenched168 — the glance of innocent gaiety was exchanged for looks now moody169 with ill-concealed care, now animated170 by a spirit of reckless and satirical observation.
“What a wreck171! what a wreck!” exclaimed Tyrrel; “and all of one wretch’s making. — Can I put the last hand to the work, and be her murderer outright172? I cannot — I cannot! — I will be strong in the resolve I have formed — I will sacrifice all — rank — station — fortune — and fame. Revenge! — Revenge itself, the last good left me — revenge itself I will sacrifice, to obtain for her such tranquillity as she may be yet capable to enjoy.”
In this resolution he sat down, and wrote a letter to the commercial house with whom the documents of his birth, and other relative papers, were deposited, requesting that the packet containing them should be forwarded to him through the post-office.
Tyrrel was neither unambitious, nor without those sentiments respecting personal consideration, which are usually united with deep feeling and an ardent173 mind. It was with a trembling hand, and a watery174 eye, but with a heart firmly resolved, that he sealed and dispatched the letter; a step towards the resignation, in favour of his mortal enemy, of that rank and condition in life, which was his own by right of inheritance, but had so long hung in doubt betwixt them.
点击收听单词发音
1 mediation | |
n.调解 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
2 assail | |
v.猛烈攻击,抨击,痛斥 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
3 assailed | |
v.攻击( assail的过去式和过去分词 );困扰;质问;毅然应对 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
4 redress | |
n.赔偿,救济,矫正;v.纠正,匡正,革除 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
5 postponed | |
vt.& vi.延期,缓办,(使)延迟vt.把…放在次要地位;[语]把…放在后面(或句尾)vi.(疟疾等)延缓发作(或复发) | |
参考例句: |
|
|
6 vindication | |
n.洗冤,证实 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
7 determined | |
adj.坚定的;有决心的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
8 ushered | |
v.引,领,陪同( usher的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
参考例句: |
|
|
9 chamber | |
n.房间,寝室;会议厅;议院;会所 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
10 distinguished | |
adj.卓越的,杰出的,著名的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
11 pretension | |
n.要求;自命,自称;自负 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
12 exterior | |
adj.外部的,外在的;表面的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
13 abated | |
减少( abate的过去式和过去分词 ); 减去; 降价; 撤消(诉讼) | |
参考例句: |
|
|
14 spoke | |
n.(车轮的)辐条;轮辐;破坏某人的计划;阻挠某人的行动 v.讲,谈(speak的过去式);说;演说;从某种观点来说 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
15 standing | |
n.持续,地位;adj.永久的,不动的,直立的,不流动的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
16 contradictory | |
adj.反驳的,反对的,抗辩的;n.正反对,矛盾对立 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
17 unnatural | |
adj.不自然的;反常的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
18 mediator | |
n.调解人,中介人 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
19 injustice | |
n.非正义,不公正,不公平,侵犯(别人的)权利 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
20 persecution | |
n. 迫害,烦扰 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
21 expressively | |
ad.表示(某事物)地;表达地 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
22 guardian | |
n.监护人;守卫者,保护者 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
23 hardy | |
adj.勇敢的,果断的,吃苦的;耐寒的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
24 undertaking | |
n.保证,许诺,事业 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
25 confidential | |
adj.秘(机)密的,表示信任的,担任机密工作的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
26 intercourse | |
n.性交;交流,交往,交际 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
27 delicacy | |
n.精致,细微,微妙,精良;美味,佳肴 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
28 vindicate | |
v.为…辩护或辩解,辩明;证明…正确 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
29 rendezvous | |
n.约会,约会地点,汇合点;vi.汇合,集合;vt.使汇合,使在汇合地点相遇 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
30 prudence | |
n.谨慎,精明,节俭 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
31 outlawry | |
宣布非法,非法化,放逐 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
32 rescinded | |
v.废除,取消( rescind的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
参考例句: |
|
|
33 honourable | |
adj.可敬的;荣誉的,光荣的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
34 proceedings | |
n.进程,过程,议程;诉讼(程序);公报 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
35 frankly | |
adv.坦白地,直率地;坦率地说 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
36 stigma | |
n.耻辱,污名;(花的)柱头 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
37 guilt | |
n.犯罪;内疚;过失,罪责 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
38 treacherous | |
adj.不可靠的,有暗藏的危险的;adj.背叛的,背信弃义的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
39 favourable | |
adj.赞成的,称赞的,有利的,良好的,顺利的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
40 auspices | |
n.资助,赞助 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
41 lawsuit | |
n.诉讼,控诉 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
42 ascertaining | |
v.弄清,确定,查明( ascertain的现在分词 ) | |
参考例句: |
|
|
43 overthrow | |
v.推翻,打倒,颠覆;n.推翻,瓦解,颠覆 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
44 rev | |
v.发动机旋转,加快速度 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
45 extremity | |
n.末端,尽头;尽力;终极;极度 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
46 inflicted | |
把…强加给,使承受,遭受( inflict的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
参考例句: |
|
|
47 inhuman | |
adj.残忍的,不人道的,无人性的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
48 stratagem | |
n.诡计,计谋 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
49 innocence | |
n.无罪;天真;无害 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
50 inevitable | |
adj.不可避免的,必然发生的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
51 misery | |
n.痛苦,苦恼,苦难;悲惨的境遇,贫苦 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
52 wretches | |
n.不幸的人( wretch的名词复数 );可怜的人;恶棍;坏蛋 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
53 wretch | |
n.可怜的人,不幸的人;卑鄙的人 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
54 idiocy | |
n.愚蠢 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
55 repose | |
v.(使)休息;n.安息 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
56 acting | |
n.演戏,行为,假装;adj.代理的,临时的,演出用的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
57 demon | |
n.魔鬼,恶魔 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
58 sordid | |
adj.肮脏的,不干净的,卑鄙的,暗淡的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
59 motives | |
n.动机,目的( motive的名词复数 ) | |
参考例句: |
|
|
60 inveterate | |
adj.积习已深的,根深蒂固的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
61 hatred | |
n.憎恶,憎恨,仇恨 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
62 variance | |
n.矛盾,不同 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
63 impute | |
v.归咎于 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
64 prick | |
v.刺伤,刺痛,刺孔;n.刺伤,刺痛 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
65 wincing | |
赶紧避开,畏缩( wince的现在分词 ) | |
参考例句: |
|
|
66 possessed | |
adj.疯狂的;拥有的,占有的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
67 impeach | |
v.弹劾;检举 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
68 entirely | |
ad.全部地,完整地;完全地,彻底地 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
69 patrimony | |
n.世袭财产,继承物 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
70 defer | |
vt.推迟,拖延;vi.(to)遵从,听从,服从 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
71 vile | |
adj.卑鄙的,可耻的,邪恶的;坏透的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
72 infamous | |
adj.声名狼藉的,臭名昭著的,邪恶的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
73 wedlock | |
n.婚姻,已婚状态 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
74 tenor | |
n.男高音(歌手),次中音(乐器),要旨,大意 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
75 nay | |
adv.不;n.反对票,投反对票者 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
76 vow | |
n.誓(言),誓约;v.起誓,立誓 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
77 confession | |
n.自白,供认,承认 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
78 agitated | |
adj.被鼓动的,不安的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
79 agitate | |
vi.(for,against)煽动,鼓动;vt.搅动 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
80 credible | |
adj.可信任的,可靠的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
81 villain | |
n.反派演员,反面人物;恶棍;问题的起因 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
82 abominable | |
adj.可厌的,令人憎恶的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
83 fully | |
adv.完全地,全部地,彻底地;充分地 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
84 perfectly | |
adv.完美地,无可非议地,彻底地 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
85 unwilling | |
adj.不情愿的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
86 prosecute | |
vt.告发;进行;vi.告发,起诉,作检察官 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
87 traitor | |
n.叛徒,卖国贼 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
88 affinity | |
n.亲和力,密切关系 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
89 vilest | |
adj.卑鄙的( vile的最高级 );可耻的;极坏的;非常讨厌的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
90 vengeance | |
n.报复,报仇,复仇 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
91 reverting | |
恢复( revert的现在分词 ); 重提; 回到…上; 归还 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
92 extort | |
v.勒索,敲诈,强要 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
93 extorted | |
v.敲诈( extort的过去式和过去分词 );曲解 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
94 secrecy | |
n.秘密,保密,隐蔽 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
95 exertion | |
n.尽力,努力 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
96 generosity | |
n.大度,慷慨,慷慨的行为 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
97 supplant | |
vt.排挤;取代 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
98 nuptial | |
adj.婚姻的,婚礼的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
99 benediction | |
n.祝福;恩赐 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
100 annihilated | |
v.(彻底)消灭( annihilate的过去式和过去分词 );使无效;废止;彻底击溃 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
101 alas | |
int.唉(表示悲伤、忧愁、恐惧等) | |
参考例句: |
|
|
102 texture | |
n.(织物)质地;(材料)构造;结构;肌理 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
103 gilding | |
n.贴金箔,镀金 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
104 pretences | |
n.假装( pretence的名词复数 );作假;自命;自称 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
105 needy | |
adj.贫穷的,贫困的,生活艰苦的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
106 profligate | |
adj.行为不检的;n.放荡的人,浪子,肆意挥霍者 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
107 profess | |
v.声称,冒称,以...为业,正式接受入教,表明信仰 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
108 procure | |
vt.获得,取得,促成;vi.拉皮条 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
109 anticipations | |
预期( anticipation的名词复数 ); 预测; (信托财产收益的)预支; 预期的事物 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
110 juvenile | |
n.青少年,少年读物;adj.青少年的,幼稚的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
111 intrigue | |
vt.激起兴趣,迷住;vi.耍阴谋;n.阴谋,密谋 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
112 passionate | |
adj.热情的,热烈的,激昂的,易动情的,易怒的,性情暴躁的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
113 retirement | |
n.退休,退职 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
114 advantageous | |
adj.有利的;有帮助的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
115 mere | |
adj.纯粹的;仅仅,只不过 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
116 renounce | |
v.放弃;拒绝承认,宣布与…断绝关系 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
117 honeymoon | |
n.蜜月(假期);vi.度蜜月 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
118 countenance | |
n.脸色,面容;面部表情;vt.支持,赞同 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
119 tempted | |
v.怂恿(某人)干不正当的事;冒…的险(tempt的过去分词) | |
参考例句: |
|
|
120 accede | |
v.应允,同意 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
121 tranquillity | |
n. 平静, 安静 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
122 fanged | |
adj.有尖牙的,有牙根的,有毒牙的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
123 adder | |
n.蝰蛇;小毒蛇 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
124 fettered | |
v.给…上脚镣,束缚( fetter的过去式和过去分词 ) | |
参考例句: |
|
|
125 avowedly | |
adv.公然地 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
126 dealing | |
n.经商方法,待人态度 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
127 philosophic | |
adj.哲学的,贤明的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
128 indifference | |
n.不感兴趣,不关心,冷淡,不在乎 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
129 dictated | |
v.大声讲或读( dictate的过去式和过去分词 );口授;支配;摆布 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
130 contented | |
adj.满意的,安心的,知足的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
131 scroll | |
n.卷轴,纸卷;(石刻上的)漩涡 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
132 descend | |
vt./vi.传下来,下来,下降 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
133 diminution | |
n.减少;变小 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
134 compensated | |
补偿,报酬( compensate的过去式和过去分词 ); 给(某人)赔偿(或赔款) | |
参考例句: |
|
|
135 precarious | |
adj.不安定的,靠不住的;根据不足的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
136 abstain | |
v.自制,戒绝,弃权,避免 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
137 prosecuting | |
检举、告发某人( prosecute的现在分词 ); 对某人提起公诉; 继续从事(某事物); 担任控方律师 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
138 usurped | |
篡夺,霸占( usurp的过去式和过去分词 ); 盗用; 篡夺,篡权 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
139 bind | |
vt.捆,包扎;装订;约束;使凝固;vi.变硬 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
140 molest | |
vt.骚扰,干扰,调戏 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
141 intervention | |
n.介入,干涉,干预 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
142 penitence | |
n.忏悔,赎罪;悔过 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
143 exertions | |
n.努力( exertion的名词复数 );费力;(能力、权力等的)运用;行使 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
144 faltered | |
(嗓音)颤抖( falter的过去式和过去分词 ); 支吾其词; 蹒跚; 摇晃 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
145 ridicule | |
v.讥讽,挖苦;n.嘲弄 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
146 sincerity | |
n.真诚,诚意;真实 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
147 follies | |
罪恶,时事讽刺剧; 愚蠢,蠢笨,愚蠢的行为、思想或做法( folly的名词复数 ) | |
参考例句: |
|
|
148 utterly | |
adv.完全地,绝对地 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
149 memorandum | |
n.备忘录,便笺 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
150 constituent | |
n.选民;成分,组分;adj.组成的,构成的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
151 sarcastic | |
adj.讥讽的,讽刺的,嘲弄的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
152 apprehended | |
逮捕,拘押( apprehend的过去式和过去分词 ); 理解 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
153 remittances | |
n.汇寄( remittance的名词复数 );汇款,汇款额 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
154 withhold | |
v.拒绝,不给;使停止,阻挡 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
155 enquire | |
v.打听,询问;调查,查问 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
156 custody | |
n.监护,照看,羁押,拘留 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
157 authenticity | |
n.真实性 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
158 speculation | |
n.思索,沉思;猜测;投机 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
159 abide | |
vi.遵守;坚持;vt.忍受 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
160 retracting | |
v.撤回或撤消( retract的现在分词 );拒绝执行或遵守;缩回;拉回 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
161 haughtily | |
adv. 傲慢地, 高傲地 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
162 extricating | |
v.使摆脱困难,脱身( extricate的现在分词 ) | |
参考例句: |
|
|
163 frivolous | |
adj.轻薄的;轻率的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
164 bosom | |
n.胸,胸部;胸怀;内心;adj.亲密的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
165 subdued | |
adj. 屈服的,柔和的,减弱的 动词subdue的过去式和过去分词 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
166 lurked | |
vi.潜伏,埋伏(lurk的过去式与过去分词形式) | |
参考例句: |
|
|
167 joyous | |
adj.充满快乐的;令人高兴的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
168 quenched | |
解(渴)( quench的过去式和过去分词 ); 终止(某事物); (用水)扑灭(火焰等); 将(热物体)放入水中急速冷却 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
169 moody | |
adj.心情不稳的,易怒的,喜怒无常的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
170 animated | |
adj.生气勃勃的,活跃的,愉快的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
171 wreck | |
n.失事,遇难;沉船;vt.(船等)失事,遇难 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
172 outright | |
adv.坦率地;彻底地;立即;adj.无疑的;彻底的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
173 ardent | |
adj.热情的,热烈的,强烈的,烈性的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
174 watery | |
adj.有水的,水汪汪的;湿的,湿润的 | |
参考例句: |
|
|
欢迎访问英文小说网 |