He felt that he could slip away unseen were that stern man to be on the watch.
Each day that had passed beneath his uncle's roof had helped him to realize more of the freedom of the subject; and very soon he would be beyond the reach of pursuit, and on his way to London.
As they approached the chantry Kate laid a hand upon his arm.
"Hist!" she said softly.

"Pause a moment; I hear voices!" He stopped instantly; and making a sign of caution to him, Kate glided a few steps onward.

Then she paused again, and made a sign to him to come.
"It is all well--there is no fear.

It is Philip and Petronella." "Petronella, my sister! Nay, but this is a happy chance!" cried Cuthbert, springing eagerly forward; and the next moment Petronella, with a little cry of mingled joy and fear, had flung herself into her brother's arms.
"Cuthbert, dear Cuthbert! How I have longed to see thee once again! Hast thou come to say farewell ?" "In truth, methinks it must be farewell," answered Cuthbert, holding her tenderly to him, whilst he caressed her hair and her soft cheek with his hand.

"I may not linger too long in my kind uncle's house, lest the matter should come to my father's ears, and a worse breach be made that might cause thee to suffer more, sweet sister.