The six sisters of the valleys : an historical romance - University Library

THE AVENGER. 349
" Oh, Echard, my heart misgives me
beware of that Abbot Malvicino ; it was
he who captured me and placed me on
the rack ; oh, be careful !"
" Dear Ardoine, you are faint and weak;
I will help you. Quick, let us make for
the postern." Lifting her gently in his
arms, he carried her from the chapel, and
hastily threaded his way to the convent-
garden. His breast heaved as he felt his
precious burden, of whose weight he was,
as it were, unconscious. He strained her
to his heart, as though it was too sweet a
dream, and surrendered himself to the
bliss of the moment, notwithstanding
the dangers by which they were still sur-
rounded.
" Fear not," said he, bending over her
face, " I am yours ; God helping me I will
save you ; I have been true since first I
saw you, and the fear of death shall never
make me false. Doubt me not, for I am one
with you in creed. Oh, can you in this
!