Pagina 170 van 896

Mr. Lorry reddened as if he were conscious of having debated the

point in his mind, and Mr. Carton made his way to the outside of

the bar. The way out of court lay in that direction, and Jerry

followed him, all eyes, ears, and spikes.

"Mr. Darnay!"

The prisoner came forward directly.

"You will naturally be anxious to hear of the witness, Miss

Manette. She will do very well. You have seen the worst of her

agitation."

"I am deeply sorry to have been the cause of it. Could you tell

her so for me, with my fervent acknowledgments?"

"Yes, I could. I will, if you ask it."

Mr. Carton's manner was so careless as to be almost insolent. He

stood, half turned from the prisoner, lounging with his elbow

against the bar.

"I do ask it. Accept my cordial thanks."

"What," said Carton, still only half turned towards him, "do you

expect, Mr. Darnay?"

"The worst."

"It's the wisest thing to expect, and the likeliest. But I think

their withdrawing is in your favour."