"And raise the devil! -- ay, and bring him here:
her guardian is his half brother," suddenly roared
Samson in surprise and terror. "No, Montigny, she
has given too much trouble in the catching to be so
lightly released. Besides, is she to be still allowed to
stand between her betters. Leave her with me."

"Yes, leave her with Samson," cried the sulking
Seraphine, starting up in her chair. "He has known
better girls, and handsomer, too; -- umph! how much
men can be mistaken. It is wonderful that Claude
should covet her. Take her to her guardian! fie,
Monsieur Montigny," and half turning away in her
seat with scorn and disgust, she cast a look of ineffable
hatred and disdain at the suppliant Amanda, whilst
the woman of the house fixed her jealousy-filled eyes
on Samson as he murmurred: "She shall not go:
she is my prisoner."

"She must return with me, sir," said the Seigneur,
quietly but firmly. "Are you not aware how great is
the penalty that you have incurred by this disgraceful
scandal? Think it fortunate if you shall be able in
any way to compound for it with the lady's guardian.
Seraphine, mollify your indignation towards one who
has not meant to thwart you. Return to the hall
with your brother, whilst I conduct this injured lady
to the parsonage, to remain there until I can escort
her home, and (as I hope) with the aid of her interces-
sion, obtain the pardon of her cruel abductors."

"It is you that is cruel:" cried the weeping Sera-
phine: "it is Claude that is cruel. Not meant to
thwart me! she _has_ thwarted me, and you encourage
her, you justify her, Monsieur Montigny."

"We will crucify her," cried Samson.

[[102]]

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