"'T is passing strange!" "Your infamous project is defeated," cried Aveline.

"Let the rightful claimant appear, and it will be time enough to consider what I will do .-- But I can hold no further discourse with you, and command your instant departure." "And think you we mean to return empty-handed, fair mistress ?" said Sir Giles, resuming all his wonted audacity.

"Be not deceived.

By fair means or foul you shall be the bride of Sir Francis Mitchell.

I have sworn it, and I will keep my oath!" "As I am a true gentleman, it will infinitely distress me to resort to extremities, fair mistress," said the old usurer, "and I still trust you will listen to reason.