gentlemen, Edith!--you must not judge them by those you have seen--and
when they hear all the circumstances, I have little doubt that my act
will be justified--besides, my fate will rest with Ross, General
Ross--one of the most gallant and noble spirits ever created, Edith!
And now you must let me go, fairest lady." And he raised her hand
respectfully to his lips, bowed reverently, and left the hall to find
his horse.

Just then Cloudesley was seen approaching, crying out that they had
escaped.

"You are not going to leave us, sir?" he asked Cloudesley, catching
sight of the ensign.

"I am under the necessity of doing so."

"But you are not able to travel--you can scarcely sit your horse. Pray
do not think of leaving us."

"You are a soldier--at least an amateur one, and you will understand
that after what has occurred, I must not seem to hide myself like a
fugitive from justice! In short, I must go and answer for that which I
have done."

"I understand, but really, sir, you look very ill--you--"

But here the young officer held out his hand smilingly, took leave of
Cloudesley, and bowing low to Edith, rode off.

Cloudesley and Edith followed the gallant fellow with their eyes. He had