It will not be believed," cried the Countess.
"Monstrous as it is, it is more likely to be believed--more certain to be maintained--than the other which they lay at our door.

We may deny all their assertions; may intimidate or give the lie to the witnesses they may produce against us; may stamp as forgeries your letters which have unluckily fallen into their hands; but if this charge of witchcraft be once brought against you, it will not fall to the ground.

The King will listen to it, because it flatters his prejudices; and even my voice would fail to save you from condemnation--from the stake." "Horrible!" exclaimed Lady Exeter spreading her hands before her eyes, as if to exclude some dreadful object.

"O to live in an age when such enormities can be perpetrated! when such frightful weapons can be used against the innocent--for I _am_ innocent, at least of this offence.

All seems against me; all doors of escape--save _one_--closed.