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290 could hardly tell. To cover any sign of his feeling he went on talking.

“Where are you living now?”

“At East Chester.”

“But you come sometimes to town, don’t you? Let us know always—whenever you come; and Lady Corbet shall call on you. Indeed, I wish you’d let me bring her to see you to-day.”

“Thank you. I am going straight back to Hellingford; at least, as soon as you can get me the pardon for Dixon.”

He half smiled at her ignorance.

“The pardon must be sent to the sheriff, who holds the warrant for his execution. But, of course, you may have every assurance that it shall be sent as soon as possible. It is just the same as if he had it now.”

“Thank you very much,” said Ellinor rising.

“Pray don’t go without breakfast. If you would rather not see Lady Corbet just now, it shall be sent in to you in this room, unless you have already breakfasted.”

“No, thank you; I would rather not. You are very kind, and I am very glad to have seen you once again. There is just one thing more,” said she, colouring a little and hesitating. “This note to you was found under papa’s pillow after his death; some