Then I went slowly forward until I stood close before her.

Her eyes were on my face, still with that same look of unbelief.
"Madonna mia," said I, "do not for an instant think that it is my purpose to ask of you any sacrifice that might save my worthless life.

Rather was my purpose in seeking these few moments with you, to strengthen and encourage you by such news as it is mine to bring." She looked now as if she scarcely understood.
"If I will wed him to-night, he has promised that you shall go free," she said in a whisper.

"He says that he can bring a priest from the neighbourhood at a moment's notice." "Do not heed him," I cried sternly.
"I do not heed him," said she, more composedly.

"If he seeks to force me, I shall find a way of setting myself free.