not to shun that death which I have braved a dozen times
at least in the ---- regiment. All that I ask is, that
I may not be tried--that I may not have the shame of
hearing sentence pronounced against me YET; but if nothing
should occur before eight o'clock to vindicate my character
from this disgrace, I will offer up no further prayer
for mercy. In the name of that life, therefore, which I
once preserved to Captain de Haldimar, at the price of
my own blood, I entreat a respite from trial until then."

"In the name of God and all his angels, let mercy reach
your soul, and grant his prayer!"

Every ear was startled--every heart touched by the
plaintive, melancholy, silver tones of the voice that
faintly pronounced the last appeal, and all recognised
it for that of the young, interesting, and attached wife
of the prisoner. Again the latter turned his gaze towards
the window whence the sounds proceeded, and by the glare
of the torches a tear was distinctly seen by many coursing
down his manly cheek. The weakness was momentary. In the
next instant he closed his shirt and coat, and resuming
his cap, stepped back once more amid his guard, where he
remained stationary, with the air of one who, having
nothing further to hope, has resolved to endure the worst
that can happen with resignation and fortitude.

After the lapse of a few moments, again devoted to much
apparent deep thought and conjecture, the Governor once
more, and rather hurriedly, resumed,--