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There is little more to tell. He had written a full confession before he killed himself, a great shock to his fellow burgesses and townsmen, who had held him in such high esteem. But, like all these things, it was a nine days' wonder, and it was not long before some people began to claim they had always had their doubts about Edward Herepath, and could recall incidents which reflected badly on his character. As for myself, Lillis and I were married at the end of February in the weavers' church of St Catherine, in Temple Street; and my old acquaintance, Alderman Weaver, dignified the ceremony with his presence, standing with us in the porch and even deigning to enter the nave with us afterwards. My new mother-in-law was deeply impressed.

I should like to say that my marriage to Lillis was very happy for the sake of you, my dear daughter, my dear Elizabeth, should you ever read this. But you know me too well to expect anything but the truth. It was no happier, no more miserable a union than anyone else's, and we had so little time together, who can tell how it might have turned out? Suffice it to say that, when your mother died, giving birth to you on that bitterly cold November day, I felt bereft. Lillis was a part of my life, and the Lord, in His wisdom, had taken her away.