puncture that pierced the garment which was to cover it. Traitress,
how wilt thou answer for thus tormenting the heart that loves thee
so dearly?"

"Let me entreat you, my lord," said Catharine, "to forego this wild
talk: it becomes not you to speak thus, or me to listen. We are of
poor rank but honest manners; and the presence of the father ought
to protect the child from such expressions, even from your lordship."

This she spoke so low, that neither her father nor Conachar could
understand what she said.

"Well, tyrant," answered the persevering gallant, "I will plague you
no longer now, providing you will let me see you from your window
tomorrow, when the sun first peeps over the eastern hills, and give
me right to be your Valentine for the year."

"Not so, my lord; my father but now told me that hawks, far less
eagles, pair not with the humble linnet. Seek some court lady, to
whom your favours will be honour; to me--your Highness must permit
me to speak the plain truth--they can be nothing but disgrace."

As they spoke thus, the party arrived at the gate of the church.

"Your lordship will, I trust, permit us here to take leave of you?"
said her father. "I am well aware how little you will alter your
pleasure for the pain and uneasiness you may give to such as us
but, from the throng of attendants at the gate, your lordship may
see that there are others in the church to whom even your gracious
lordship must pay respect."