There is something terrible in that strong emotion which sometimes suddenly and unexpectedly overpowers the calmest and most controlled natures.

It speaks of an agony so measureless, so beyond the relief of sympathy, that it falls like an electric spell on the hearts of all witnesses, sweeping all minor passions into dust before it.

Little accustomed as was Sir Robert Keith to sympathize in such emotions, he now turned hastily aside, and, as if fearing to trust himself in silence, commenced a hurried detail to Nigel Bruce of the Earl of Carrick's escape from London, and his present position.

The young nobleman endeavored to confine his attention to the subject, but his eyes would wander in the direction of Agnes, who, terrified at emotions which in her mother she had never witnessed before, was kneeling in tears beside her brother.
A strong convulsive shuddering passed over the bowed frame of Isabella of Buchan; then she lifted up her head, and all traces of emotion had passed from her features.

Silently she pressed her lips on the fair brows of her children alternately, and her voice faltered not as she bade them rise and heed her not.
"We will speak further of this anon, Sir Robert," she said, so calmly that the knight started.