“This man had a commission in the army⁠—a commission, purchased with my money, and his sister’s misery! This was the man who had been foremost in the plot to ensnare me, and grasp my wealth. This was the man who had been the main instrument in forcing his sister to wed me; well knowing that her heart was given to that puling boy. Due to his uniform! The livery of his degradation! I turned my eyes upon him⁠—I could not help it⁠—but I spoke not a word.

“I saw the sudden change that came upon him beneath my gaze. He was a bold man, but the colour faded from his face, and he drew back his chair. I dragged mine nearer to him; and I laughed⁠—I was very merry then⁠—I saw him shudder. I felt the madness rising within me. He was afraid of me.

“ ‘You were very fond of your sister when she was alive,’ I said.⁠—‘Very.’

“He looked uneasily round him, and I saw his hand grasp the back of his chair; but he said nothing.