And how can you better preserve your life than by remaining at Lavedan until the persecutions are at an end ?" "I was not thinking of the Cause, mademoiselle, but of myself alone--of my own personal honour.

I would that I could explain; but I am afraid," I ended lamely.
"Afraid ?" she echoed, now raising her eyes in wonder.
"Aye, afraid.

Afraid of your contempt, of your scorn." The wonder in her glance increased and asked a question that I could not answer.

I stretched forward, and caught one of the hands lying idle in her lap.
"Roxalanne," I murmured very gently, and my tone, my touch, and the use of her name drove her eyes for refuge behind their lids again.

A flush spread upon the ivory pallor of her face, to fade as swiftly, leaving it very white.