Now do you understand ?" "I do," replied Leonard; "and I understand also against whom the Earl of Rochester warned me." "And you consent," demanded Thirlby.
Leonard, was about to answer, when he felt a light and trembling hand placed upon his own.

"Do not answer inconsiderately, Leonard," said a low, sweet voice, which he recognised as that of the Lady Isabella; "I am here to receive your determination." "I am glad of it," replied the apprentice.

"The deep devotion you have displayed towards me deserves to be requited.

I will strive to render myself worthy of you, and I feel that by so doing I shall best fulfil the injunctions of her who lies beside us.

Henceforth, Lady Isabella, I wholly devote myself to you." A murmur of delight escaped her.