'Give it me,' she cried, snatching the paper from him. 'You were ever
timid, Sir Thomas; and if you had not lacked courage, this expedient
would not have been necessary. Odious and dangerous as it is, the
measure is forced upon me, and I shall not shrink from it. But you
shall not be called upon to play any part in the transaction. I alone
will do it. I alone will be responsible for all that may ensue.'
