SIR ARCHIE'S FLIGHT



Elsalill came into the tavern wrapt in her long cloak and went
straight to a table where Sir Archie sat drinking with his
friends. A crowd of customers sat about the tables in the cellar,
but Elsalill took no heed of all the wondering glances that
followed her, as she went and sat down beside the man she loved.
Her only thought was to be with Sir Archie in the few moments of
freedom which were left to him.

When Sir Archie saw Elsalill come and sit by him, he rose and
moved with her to a table that stood far down the room, hidden by
a pillar. She could see that he was displeased at her coming to
meet him in a place where it was not the custom for young maids to
show themselves.

"I have no long message to bring you, Sir Archie," said Elsalill;
"but I would have you know that I cannot go with you to your own
country."

When Sir Archie heard Elsalill speak thus he was in despair, since
he feared that, if he lost Elsalill, the evil thoughts would again
take possession of him.

"Why will you not go with me, Elsalill?" he asked.

Elsalill was as pale as death. Her thoughts were so confused that