390
WYLDER'S HJUVD.
Oaks. His doing so places him in the same interest with
us: and, although he does not offer its full value, still I
should sleep sounder if it were concluded; and I don't
think we are safe until that sale is concluded."
Dorcas looked for a moment earnestly in his face, and
then down, in thought.
"Now, Dorkie, I have told you all. Who is to advise
you, if not your husband? Trust my sure conviction, and
promise me, Dorcas, that you will not hesitate to join me
in averting, by a sacrifice we shall hardly feel, a really
stupendous blow."
Stanley, tell me once more, are you really quite frank
when you tell me that you apprehend no personal injury
from these people — apart, I mean, from the possibility of
Mr. Larkin's conspiring to impeach our rights in favor of
Mr. Wylder?"
"Personal injury? None in life, my darling."
"And there is really no secret — nothing — tell your
wife — nothing you fear coming to light?"
"I swear again, nothing. Won't you believe me, dar-
ling?"
"Then, if it be so, Stanley, I think we should hesitate
long before selling any part of the estate, upon a mere
conjecture of danger. You or I may over-estimate that
danger, being so nearly affected by it. We must take ad-
vice; and first, we must consult Chelford. Remember,
Stanley, how long the estate has been preserved. What-
ever may have been their crimes and follies, those who
have gone before us never impaired the Brandon estate j
and, without full consideration, without urgent cause I,
Stanley, will not begin."
"Chelford is the very last man whom I would think of
consulting,': answered Stanley, with his malign and peevish
look.
"And why?" asked Dorcas.