"No," said she, withdrawing from his embrace, "I am come to take an
everlasting farewel."

It would be useless to repeat the conversation that here ensued, suffice
it to say, that Montraville used every argument that had formerly been
successful, Charlotte's resolution began to waver, and he drew her
almost imperceptibly towards the chaise.

"I cannot go," said she: "cease, dear Montraville, to persuade. I must
not: religion, duty, forbid."

"Cruel Charlotte," said he, "if you disappoint my ardent hopes, by
all that is sacred, this hand shall put a period to my existence. I
cannot--will not live without you."

"Alas! my torn heart!" said Charlotte, "how shall I act?"

"Let me direct you," said Montraville, lifting her into the chaise.

"Oh! my dear forsaken parents!" cried Charlotte.

The chaise drove off. She shrieked, and fainted into the arms of her
betrayer.




CHAPTER XIII.

CRUEL DISAPPOINTMENT.