But though greatly dejected, yet he did not despair. He still trusted
in that parent-power who smiles even under frowns, and often pours
his richest showers from the blackest clouds. Cheered with this hope,
he put the letter into his pocket, and set out to seek his Louisa.

With arms fondly interlocked, she had accompanied him that morning
to the gate on the back of the garden, through which he generally passed
when he went to Rochelle. Soon as his horse was led up,
and he about to mount, she snatched the bridle, and laughing,
vowed he should not go until he had promised her one thing.

"Well, charmer, what's that?"

"Why that you will return very soon."

"Well, indeed I will; so now let me go."

"Oh no! I am afraid that when you get out of sight you will play truant.
You must give me security."

"Well, Louisa, what security shall I give you?"

"Why you must give me that thing, whatever it be, that you hold most dear
in all the world."

"Well done! and now, Louisa, I give you yourself, the dearest thing
God ever gave me in all this world."

At this her fine face was reddened all over with blushing joy,