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

MOBAli HEEOISM. 55
them to separate some should take refuge
in Rora, and others either in Angrogna or
in the caverns of Castelluzzo, according to
circumstances.
" Ah, Madeleine," said Marguerite, as
they sat in their room at Villar, " my heart
is torn within me ; I cannot endure the
thought of my beloved Jean being a captive
in the Convent of La Tour."
"Dear sister, why should you imagine the
worst? It is more like me than you to do so."
" My heart breaks, Madeleine. I know
his gentle disposition. What if they should
torture him ! I would rather endure it my-
self ! Oh
if he should fall away from our
faith through fear of death. Lord, hear the
prayers of the broken-hearted, thou God of
the widow !"
" Oh, my sister, you touch my heart. I
shall not be able to comfort you, but shall
need your comfort."
"Madeleine, I have a plan," said Mar-
guerite, after a pause. " Perhaps it is