“It is. But have you likewise heard that Miss Grey has fifty thousand pounds? In that, if in anything, we may find an explanation.”

“It may be so; but Willoughby is capable⁠—at least I think—” He stopped a moment; then added in a voice which seemed to distrust itself, “And your sister⁠—how did she⁠—”

“Her sufferings have been very severe. I have only to hope that they may be proportionately short. It has been, it is a most cruel affliction. Till yesterday, I believe, she never doubted his regard; and even now, perhaps⁠—but I am almost convinced that he never was really attached to her. He has been very deceitful! and, in some points, there seems a hardness of heart about him.”

“Ah!” said Colonel Brandon, “there is, indeed! But your sister does not⁠—I think you said so⁠—she does not consider quite as you do?”