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"If that be so, do you see what, on the other hand, is involved

in it?"

"I understand equally well, that a word from her father in any

suitor's favour, would outweigh herself and all the world. For

which reason, Doctor Manette," said Darnay, modestly but firmly,

"I would not ask that word, to save my life."

"I am sure of it. Charles Darnay, mysteries arise out of close

love, as well as out of wide division; in the former case, they

are subtle and delicate, and difficult to penetrate. My daughter

Lucie is, in this one respect, such a mystery to me; I can make

no guess at the state of her heart."

"May I ask, sir, if you think she is--" As he hesitated, her

father supplied the rest.

"Is sought by any other suitor?"

"It is what I meant to say."

Her father considered a little before he answered:

"You have seen Mr. Carton here, yourself. Mr. Stryver is here

too, occasionally. If it be at all, it can only be by one of

these."

"Or both," said Darnay.