If that be so, do you sec 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?'

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.'

`I had not thought of both; I should not think either, likely. You want a promise from me. Tell me what it is.