Her character is most favourably
spoken of. Unfortunately, her limited intelligence makes her of no
value as a witness. We were patient and careful in questioning her,
and we found her perfectly willing to answer us; but we could
elicit nothing which is worth including in the present report.
'On the second day of our inquiries, we had the honour of an interview
with Lady Montbarry. Her ladyship looked miserably worn and ill,
and seemed to be quite at a loss to understand what we wanted with her.
Baron Rivar, who introduced us, explained the nature of our errand
in Venice, and took pains to assure her that it was a purely formal duty
on which we were engaged. Having satisfied her ladyship on this point,
he discreetly left the room.
'The questions which we addressed to Lady Montbarry related mainly,
of course, to his lordship's illness. The answers, given with great
nervousness of manner, but without the slightest appearance of reserve,
informed us of the facts that follow:
'Lord Montbarry had been out of order for some time past--
nervous and irritable. He first complained of having taken cold on
November 13 last; he passed a wakeful and feverish night, and remained
in bed the next day.
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