At the same moment there was a knock at the door, and a billet was
brought in from Lady Belamour. The Major tore it open and read:--
"MY DEAR COUSIN,
"I grieve for you, but my Suspicions were correct. We have all
been completely hoodwinked by that old Villain, my Brother-in-law. I
can give him no other Name, for his partial Aberration of Mind has
only sharpened his natural Cunning. Would you believe it? He had
obtained access to Delavie House, and had there hidden the unfortunate
Object of your Search, while he pretended to be assisting you, and
this Morning he carried her off in a Sedan. I have sent the good
Doves to Bowstead in case he should have the Assurance to return to
his old Quarters, but I suspect that they are on the Way to Dover.
You had better consult with Hargrave on the means of confirming the
strange Marriage Ceremony that has passed between them, since that
affords the best Security for your Daughter's Maintenance and
Reputation. Believe me, I share in your Distress. Indeed I have so
frightful a Megrim that I can scarcely tell what I write, and I dare
not admit you to-day.
"I remain,
"Your loving and much-grieved Cousin,
"URANIA BELAMOUR."
Poor Major! His horror, perplexity, and despair were indescribable.
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