There is a contrivance in this passage, which I will explain to your reverence if need be, which will cut off any possibility of pursuit in that quarter." "Be it so," replied the priest.

"I place myself in your hands, good Master Heydocke, well assured of your fidelity.

I shall remain throughout the night in this chamber, occupied in my devotions." "You will suffer me to pray with you, father, I trust ?" said Viviana.
"If you desire it, assuredly, dear daughter," rejoined Oldcorne; "but I am unwilling you should sacrifice your rest." "It will be no sacrifice, father, for I should not slumber, even if I sought my couch," she returned.

"Go, good Heydocke.

Keep vigilant watch: and, if you hear the slightest noise without, fail not to give us warning." The steward bowed, and departed.
Some hours elapsed, during which nothing occurred to alarm Viviana and her companion, who consumed the time in prayer and devout conversation; when, just at the stroke of two,--as the former was kneeling before her spiritual adviser, and receiving absolution for the slight offences of which a being so pure-minded could be supposed capable,--a noise like the falling of a bar of iron was heard beneath the window.