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Sir Richard wished to say one word to console Lord Avondale; but he could not. He burst into tears; and knelt down by the side of Calantha. "I am an old man," he said. "You thought me severe; but I would have died, child, to save you. Look up and get well. I can't bear to see this:—no, I can't bear it." He now reproached himself. "I have acted rightly perhaps, and as she deserved; but what of that: if God were to act by us all as we deserve, where should we be? Look up, child—open your eyes again—I'd give all I have on earth to see you smile once on me—to feel even that little hand press mine in token of forgiveness." "Uncle," said Lord Avondale, in a faltering voice,