I want you to come with me, and to come in secret, to the churchyard at
Kingstead.
Arthur s face fell as he said in an amazed sort of way:--
Where poor Lucy is buried? The Professor bowed. Arthur went on: And
when there?
To enter the tomb! Arthur stood up.
Professor, are you in earnest; or it is some monstrous joke? Pardon me,
I see that you are in earnest. He sat down again, but I could see that
he sat firmly and proudly, as one who is on his dignity. There was
silence until he asked again:--
And when in the tomb?
To open the coffin.
This is too much! he said, angrily rising again. I am willing to be
patient in all things that are reasonable; but in this--this desecration
of the grave--of one who---- He fairly choked with indignation. The
Professor looked pityingly at him.
If I could spare you one pang, my poor friend, he said, God knows I
would. But this night our feet must tread in thorny paths; or later, and
for ever, the feet you love must walk in paths of flame!
Arthur looked up with set white face and said:--
Take care, sir, take care!
Would it not be well to hear what I have to say? said Van Helsing.
And then you will at least know the limit of my purpose. Shall I go
on?
That s fair enough, broke in Morris.
After a pause Van Helsing went on, evidently with an effort:--
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