Blessed saints! how my heart shrank in abhorrence when I saw that letter this morning; and how fain I would blot from my memory that baseness of the past! O Marcian, truest of friends, I slighted your counsel, scoffed at your warnings, but now I know how wisely and how honestly you spoke.' 'Be that as it may,' said the other.

'But is it possible that, on a mere glimpse, this Gothic maiden should so have vanquished you ?' 'It had been more prudent to hold my peace.

But you know me of old.
When I am moved, I must needs unbosom myself; happy that I have one whom I can trust.

Her voice, Marcian! This whisper of the night breeze in the laurels falls rudely upon the ear after Veranilda's speech.
Never have I heard a tone so soft, so gentle.

The first word she spoke thrilled through me, as never did voice before; and I listened, listened, hoping she would speak again.' 'Who may she be?
Has not the lady Aurelia adorned her origin?
Golden hair and blue eyes are no rarity among daughters of the Goths.' 'Had you seen her!' exclaimed Basil, and grew rapturous again.