It is possible," he went on with hesitation--for he did not understand her--"that he may bathe to-morrow, and may hand the packet to you, as he did to-day when I vainly sought speech with you.

If he does that--" "Yes ?" she said, her eyes on his face.
"The taking will be easy.

But when he finds you have it not"-- he faltered anew--"it may go hard with you." She did not speak.
"And there, I think, I can help you.

If you will stray from the party, I will meet you and destroy the letter.

That done--and would God it were done already--I will take to flight as best I can, and you will raise the alarm and say that I robbed you of it! And if you tear your dress--" "No," she said.
He looked a question.
"No!" she repeated in a low voice.