The great height, the bare stone, the shattered windows, the aspect of the uncurtained bed, with one of its four fluted columns broken short, all struck a chill upon his fancy.

From this dismal survey his eyes returned to Nance crouching before the fire, the candle in one hand and artfully puffing at the embers; the flames as they broke forth played upon the soft outline of her cheek--she was alive and young, coloured with the bright hues of life, and a woman.

He looked upon her, softening; and then sat down and continued to admire the picture.
'There, sir,' said she, getting upon her feet, 'your fire is doing bravely now.

Good-night.' He rose and held out his hand.

'Come,' said he, 'you are my only friend in these parts, and you must shake hands.' She brushed her hand upon her skirt and offered it, blushing.
'God bless you, my dear,' said he.
And then, when he was alone, he opened one of the windows, and stared down into the dark valley.