Perhaps there was also a fleeting thought of
the possibility of an eternal separation from her lover, should he
proceed and bring back her brother to punishment. It is difficult at all
times to analyze human emotions, and they pass through the sensitive
heart of a woman with the rapidity and nearly with the vividness of
lightning.
"Why do you hesitate, dear Frances?" cried Dunwoodie, who was studying
her varying countenance. "A few minutes might give me a husband's claim
to protect you."
Frances grew giddy. She turned an anxious eye to the clock, and the hand
seemed to linger over its face, as if with intent to torture her.
"Speak, Frances," murmured Dunwoodie; "may I summon my good kinswoman?
Determine, for time presses."
She endeavored to reply, but could only whisper something that was
inaudible, but which her lover, with the privilege of immemorial custom,
construed into assent. He turned and flew to the door, when his mistress
recovered her voice:--
"Stop, Peyton! I cannot enter into such a solemn engagement with a fraud
upon my conscience. I have seen Henry since his escape, and time is
all-important to him. Here is my hand; if, with this knowledge of the
consequences of delay, you will not reject it, it is freely yours."
"Reject it!" cried the delighted youth.
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