I have seen the epistle myself, and though I could not read it, the very sight of the seals of the right reverend prelates and noble and true barons which hung at it made my heart leap for joy.

Thou shouldst not have kept this secret, my child--but it is no time to tax thee with thy fault.

Go down, get me some food.

I will mount instantly, and go to our Lord Provost and have his advice, and, as I trust, his protection and that of other true hearted Scottish nobles, who will not see a true man trodden down for an idle word." "Alas! my father," said Catharine, "it was even this impetuosity which I dreaded.

I knew if I made my plaint to you there would soon be fire and feud, as if religion, though sent to us by the Father of peace, were fit only to be the mother of discord; and hence I could now--even now--give up the world, and retire with my sorrow among the sisters of Elcho, would you but let me be the sacrifice.