And, were that difficulty removed, dare I plead for your union with one who is not of our faith--one, moreover, whom you cannot wed without putting yourself in grave peril ?' 'Listen, gentle cousin!' exclaimed Basil eagerly.

'It may be that Veranilda has already renounced the heresy of Anus.

If not, she would assuredly do so at my persuasion.

So, that objection you may dismiss.
As for the danger to which our marriage might expose us, our love would dare that--ay, and things much worse.' 'You speak so confidently of the Gothic maiden ?' said Silvia, with a look half-timid, half-amused.

'Was there, then, a veritable plighting of troth between you ?' 'There was, dear cousin.