"All I desired was to serve you.

In the midst of the dangers we have shared together, I felt no alarm except for your sake.

I have done nothing--nothing.

Would I had died for you!" "Calm yourself, sir, I entreat you," she returned.
"You did love me _once_ ?" demanded Chetham, suddenly.
"I thought so," she answered.
The young merchant uttered an exclamation of anguish, and a mournful pause ensued, broken only by his groans.
"Answer me, Viviana," he said, turning abruptly upon her,--"answer me, and, in mercy, answer truly,--do you love another ?" "It is a question I cannot answer," she replied, becoming ashy pale.
"Your looks speak for you!" he vociferated, in a terrible tone,--"you do! His name ?--his name ?--that I may wreak my vengeance upon him." "Your violence terrifies me," returned Viviana, withdrawing the hand he had seized.

"I must put an end to this interview." "Pardon me, Viviana!" cried Chetham, falling on his knees before her--"in pity pardon me! I am not myself.