Page:The Prime Minister by Hall Caine.djvu/176

152 you to come here in that false name and character—are they intimidating you?  No.  Is there somebody else then? Have you some other attachment? Did you go to that house to- night in the hope of protecting the welfare, perhaps the life, of somebody you—you love?  [After an effort.] No.  Then in God's name, why did you go? Have you nothing to say for yourself? Speak!  If I could only do so—but I can't—I can't!  In that case you compel me to put the worst interpretation upon your silence. You returned to the house of your family and friends in fulfilment of the design — the base and treacherous design — which first brought you into mine.  [Eagerly.] No, no!  [Severely.] Don't add falsehood to falsehood, I warn you. It is known to the authorities that your