Her step became less elastic, her cheek yet paler, and
the anxious father began to watch more closely these hectic changes, and
to tremble for the health of his child.
"I am sick of this crowded place, of these sophisticated people, papa. I
shall die here. Let me return to the country."
Frightened at the daily alteration in her appearance, the Captain
promised to grant her request. Her aunt gave a large party the night
before they were to leave town; and Juliet, to please her kind relative,
exerted herself to the utmost to appear in good spirits.
"There has been a shocking murder committed in your neighborhood, Miss
Whitmore," said the officer, with whom she had been dancing, as he led
her to a seat. "Have you seen the papers?"
"No," said Juliet, carelessly. "I seldom read these accounts. They are
so shocking; and we read them too much as matters of mere amusement and
idle curiosity, without reflecting sufficiently upon the awful guilt
which they involve."
"This is a very dreadful business indeed. I thought you might know
something of the parties."
"Not very likely. We lead such a secluded life at the Lodge, that we are
strangers to most of the people in the neighborhood."
"You have heard of the eccentric miser, Mark Hurdlestone?"
"Who has not?" and Juliet started, and turned pale. "Surely he has not
been murdered?"
"Yes; and by his own son.
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