"Here's Mr. Stone come back, sir!" she exclaimed joyfully--and hurried away to let him in.
Cosway never looked up when his friend appeared.
"I knew I should succeed," said Stone. "I have seen your wife.""Don't speak of her," cried Cosway. "I should have murdered her when I saw her face, if I had not instantly left the house. I may be the death of the wretch yet, if you presist in speaking of her!"Stone put his hand kindly on his friend's shoulder.
"Must I remind you that you owe something to your old comrade?"he asked. "I left my father and mother, the morning I got your letter-- and my one thought has been to serve you. Reward me. Be a man, and hear what is your right and duty to know. After that, if you like, we will never refer to the woman again."Cosway took his hand, in silent acknowledgment that he was right.
They sat down together. Stone began.
