Perhaps he might be saved yet--the house is strong, and
might be defended for some time, even by a couple of
men."
"And me at their head. Is it not so, Maria?" inquired
the youth.
"Yes, and you at their head, dear Ronayne," repeated Miss
Heywood; "to no one sooner would I be indebted for my
father's safety, as no one would, I am sure, more cheerfully
attempt his deliverance."
The young American mused a moment, and then rejoined,
despondingly; "Were these men at my disposal, Maria, how
gladly would I hasten to encounter every difficulty, the
removal of which would spare your gentle bosom those
pangs; but you know Headley would never permit it. His
prudence is a mania, and even were he to yield his
consent--let me not sustain you with delusive hopes--I
fear it would be too late."
"God's will be done," she ejaculated, as the large tears
fell trickling down her pallid cheeks, "but what will
become of my poor and now nearly death-stricken-mother,
when she hears of this?"
"The blow is indeed a fearful one, but act, I pray you,
with courage. Consider, too, your own safety.
Pages:
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
136
137
138