“There’s no explanation⁠—no excuse. I forced it on him! On Jack, my brother! Because I was mad for love of Lavinia⁠—Oh, my God, the thought of it is driving me crazed! I thought I could forget; and then⁠—and then⁠—I met him! The sight of him brought it all back to me. Ever since that day I have not known how to live and not shriek the truth to everyone! And I never shall! I never shall!”

“Tell me, sir,” pleaded Warburton, touched in spite of himself.

Richard’s head sunk into his hands.

“The whole scene is a nightmare.⁠ ⁠… I think I must have been mad.⁠ ⁠… I scarce knew what I was about. I⁠—”

“Gently, sir. Remember I know hardly anything. What induced you to mark the cards?”