He enjoined me to keep secret what I had seen
and heard, till the time should come to declare it. I conceived that I
was called to be a witness of these things; besides, my curiosity was
excited to know the event; I,
therefore, desired to be present at the interview between him and his
mother, which was affecting beyond expression. I heard what I have now
declared as nearly as my memory permits me. I hope no impartial person
will blame me for any part of my conduct; but if they should, I do not
repent it. If I should forfeit the favour of the rich and great, I
shall have acquitted myself to God and my conscience. I have no worldly
ends to answer; I plead the cause of the injured orphan; and I think,
also, that I second the designs of Providence."
"You have well spoken, father," said the Lord Clifford; "your testimony
is
indeed of consequence.
"It is amazing and convincing," said Lord Graham; "and the whole story
is so well connected, that I can see nothing to make us doubt the truth
of it; but let us examine the proofs."
Edmund gave into their hands the necklace and earrings; he showed them
the locket with the cypher of Lovel, and the seal with the arms; he
told them the cloak, in which he was wrapped, was in the custody of his
foster-mother, who would produce it on demand. He begged that some
proper persons might be commissioned to go with him to examine whether
or no the bodies of his parents were buried where he affirmed; adding,
that he put his pretensions into their hands with pleasure, relying
entirely upon their honour and justice.
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