stranger, "for you have bound my heart in such fast
thraldom, that even yourself could not deliver it."

"And, perhaps, I would not, if I could, -- unless
you asked it:" she answered: "and yet, sir, possibly
you jest. Oh, sir, forbear; begone, nor longer fool
here a surprised, lone girl. What is your purpose?
who, and whence, are you? On your honor, answer
me truly."

"I am the seignieur Montigny's only son: my
purpose and my thoughts towards you are all honor-
able:" he replied. And she rejoined: "Oh, if your
intentions are dishonorable, and you have not the
spirit, as you have the aspect, of a gentleman, yet
keep this secret, as you are a man."

"What shall be said to reassure you?" demanded
Montigny. "Witness, Heaven, if I assume to act, or
intend anything injurious towards you. Believe me.
I am the heir to a proud seigniory: you are, -- I know
not what; enough for me to know, you are the fair-
est figure that has yet filled mine eyes, and surely as
good as fair. Will you be mine, as I am yours for
ever? Speak, why are you silent?"

"Hist," she said, listening.

"What is the matter?" he enquired.

"Nothing, perhaps nothing:" she continued,
whilst her voice faltered: -- "but go, oh, go, and
come again to-morrow, or next week, or when you
will. I'll think on what you have said; but go; I
tremble so; stay here no longer; think, should we be
observed. I am ashamed to think of it. I am
ashamed to look the moon in the face, ashamed to
look into yours. Oh, sir, what have I done? What
have you said? How have I answered? for I am

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v?