The Story Continued by Marian Halcombe

interests, and whose dull intelligence lowers her to the level of the watchdog in the yard. It is impossible to say what violent measures he may take next, unless we make the most of our opportunities while we have them.” “What can we do, Marian? Oh, if we could only leave this house, never to see it again!” “Listen to me, my love, and try to think that you are not quite helpless so long as I am here with you.” “I will think so⁠—I do think so. Don’t altogether forget poor Fanny in thinking of me. She wants help and comfort too.” “I will not forget her. I saw her before I came up here, and I have arranged to communicate with her tonight. Letters are not safe in the postbag at Blackwater Park, and I shall have two to write today, in your interests, which must pass through no hands but Fanny’s.” “What letters?” “I mean to write first, Laura, to Mr. Gilmore’s partner, who has offered to help us in any fresh emergency. Little as I know of the law, I am certain that it can protect a woman from such treatment as that ruffian has inflicted on you today. I will go into no details about Anne Catherick, because I have no certain information to give. But the lawyer shall know of those bruises on your arm, and of the violence offered to you in this room⁠—he shall, before I rest tonight!” “But think of the exposure, Marian!”