VIII MORE MYSTERY `` Uncle , can I speak to you a moment ? '' said Helen , very gravely , as they left the breakfast-room next morning . `` Not now , my dear , I 'm busy , '' was the hasty reply , as the major shawled Mrs. Cumberland for an early promenade . Helen knit her brows irefully , for this answer had been given her half a dozen times lately when she asked for an interview . It was evident he wished to avoid all lectures , remonstrances , and explanations ; and it was also evident that he was in love with the widow . `` Lovers are worse than lunatics to manage , so it is vain to try to get any help from him , '' sighed Helen , adding , as her uncle was gallantly leading his stout divinity away into the garden : `` Amy has a bad headache , and I shall stay to take care of her , so we ca n't join your party to Chillon , sir . We have been there once , so you need n't postpone it for us . '' `` Very well , my dear , '' and the major walked away , looking much relieved . As Helen was about to leave the salon Casimer appeared . A single glance at her face assured him that she knew all , and instantly assuming a confiding , persuasive air that was irresistible , he said , meekly , -- `` Mademoiselle , I do not deserve a word from you , but it desolates me to know that I have grieved the little angel who is too dear to me . For her sake , pardon that I spoke my heart in spite of prudence , and permit me to send her this . '' Helen glanced from the flowers he held to his beseeching face , and her own softened . He looked so penitent and anxious , she had not the heart to reproach him . `` I will forgive you and carry your gift to Amy on one condition , '' she said , gravely . `` Ah , you are kind ! Name , then , the condition . I implore you , and I will agree . '' `` Tell me , then , on your honor as a gentleman , are you not Baron Palsdorf ? '' `` On my honor as a gentleman , I swear to you I am not . '' `` Are you , in truth , what you profess to be ? ''
`` I am , in truth , XXXXX 's lover , your devoted servant , and a most unhappy man , with but a little while to live .
Amy Casimer Chillon Helen Palsdorf VIII breakfast-room left lunatics remonstrances