"No; though the felon were my son, who is dearer to me
than my own life, and I could effectually conceal his guilt, he should
pay the penalty due to his crime."
'The old man shuddered and drew back a few paces. "Your reverence has
made a pretty shrewd guess. It was Master George!"
'"George? my George?" The Doctor sank into his study chair. He grasped
at the arms convulsively. His broad chest heaved and panted, his breath
came in hoarse gasps. He was too much stunned to speak. Ralph poured
out a glass of water, and held it to his white and rigid lips.
'"'Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy.' The Lord help
and comfort you, my dear master, under this heavy affliction. We are
all liable to temptation. Try and forgive your son."
'"My son! Never call him my son again. I disown him--cast him off for
ever. George, George, this will kill me! I loved and trusted you so
much--would have given my life to save yours any day--and you have
disgraced my name and calling, and broken my heart.--But are you sure,
old man?" he cried, clutching Ralph by the shoulder; "sure that my
George did this horrible thing?"
'"For God's sake, sir, moderate your anger. Master George is very
young; he may never do the like again."
'"That is no answer to my question," cried the wretched father,
tightening his grasp upon the old man's arm. "I do not ask you to
palliate his guilt. It admits of no excuse. Did you see him do it? Tell
me that--tell me quickly.
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