This feud between
you and young Drood must not go on. I cannot permit it to go on
any longer, knowing what I now know from you, and you living under
my roof. Whatever prejudiced and unauthorised constructions your
blind and envious wrath may put upon his character, it is a frank,
good-natured character. I know I can trust to it for that. Now,
pray observe what I am about to say. On reflection, and on your
sister's representation, I am willing to admit that, in making
peace with young Drood, you have a right to be met half-way. I
will engage that you shall be, and even that young Drood shall make
the first advance. This condition fulfilled, you will pledge me
the honour of a Christian gentleman that the quarrel is for ever at
an end on your side. What may be in your heart when you give him
your hand, can only be known to the Searcher of all hearts; but it
will never go well with you, if there be any treachery there. So
far, as to that; next as to what I must again speak of as your
infatuation. I understand it to have been confided to me, and to
be known to no other person save your sister and yourself. Do I
understand aright?'
Helena answered in a low voice: 'It is only known to us three who
are here together.'
'It is not at all known to the young lady, your friend?'
'On my soul, no!'
'I require you, then, to give me your similar and solemn pledge,
Mr. Neville, that it shall remain the secret it is, and that you
will take no other action whatsoever upon it than endeavouring (and
that most earnestly) to erase it from your mind.
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