countenance owns it; you have seen Peschiera? This house is, then, less
safe than your father deemed it. No house is safe for you but a
husband's. I offer to you my name,--it is a gentleman's; my fortune,
which is small; the participation in my hopes of the future, which are
large. I place now your father's letter in your hand, and await your
answer." Randal bowed slightly, gave the letter to Violante, and retired
a few paces.

It was not his object to conciliate Violante's affection, but rather to
excite her repugnance, or at least her terror,--we must wait to discover
why; so he stood apart, seemingly in a kind of self-confident
indifference, while the girl read the following letter:

"My child, receive with favour Mr. Leslie. He has my consent to
address you as a suitor. Circumstances of which it is needless now
to inform you render it essential to my very peace and happiness
that your marriage should he immediate. In a word, I have given my
promise to Mr. Leslie, and I confidently leave it to the daughter of
my House to redeem the pledge of her anxious and tender father."

The letter dropped from Violante's hand. Randal approached, and restored
it to her. Their eyes met. Violante recoiled.

"I cannot marry you," said she, passionately.

"Indeed?" answered Randal, dryly. "Is it because you cannot love me?"

"Yes."

"I did not expect that you would as yet, and I still persist in my suit.