I would remind you that no oath of secresy, however solemn, can be binding in an unrighteous cause.

I would tell you that your first duty is to your prince and governor, and that it is as great a crime, as unpardonable in the eyes of God as of man, to withhold the revelation of a conspiracy against the State, should it come to your knowledge, as to conspire against it yourself.

I would lay all this before you.

I would show you the magnitude of your offence, the danger in which you stand, and the utter impossibility of screening your companions, who, ere long, will be confronted with you,--did I think it would avail.

But, as you continue obstinate, justice must take its course." "I am prepared for the worst, my lord," replied Viviana, humbly.