Proofs of it are by now in the hands of Cesare Borgia, and in some seven or eight hours the Duke himself should be here to put this monster to the question touching these matters.

I will say a word in his ear ere I depart that will fill his mind with a very wholesome fear, and you will find that during the few hours left him he will have little leisure to think of you and afflict you with his odious wooing.

Be strong, then, for a little while, for Cesare is coming to set you free." She looked at me now with eyes that were wide open.

Suddenly-- "Could we not gain time ?" she cried, and in her eagerness she rose and set her hands upon my shoulders.

"Could I not pretend to acquiesce to his wishes, and so delay your end ?" "I have thought of it," I answered gloomily, "but the thought has brought me no hope.