her sister's side.

In about an hour Girasole came back. The two sisters were seated
there. Minnie's head was resting on her sister's shoulder, and she was
fast asleep, while Mrs. Willoughby sat motionless, with her face
turned toward him, and such an expression in her dark eyes that
Girasole felt awed. He turned in silence and went away.

CHAPTER XXV.

SEEKING FOR HELP.

The departure of the drivers with their horses had increased the
difficulties of the party, and had added to their danger. Of that
party Ethel was now the head, and her efforts were directed more
zealously than ever to bring back Lady Dalrymple to her senses. At
last these efforts were crowned with success, and, after being
senseless for nearly an hour, she came to herself. The restoration of
her senses, however, brought with it the discovery of all that had
occurred, and thus caused a new rush of emotion, which threatened
painful consequences. But the consequences were averted, and at length
she was able to rise. She was then helped into her carriage, after
which the question arose as to their next proceeding.

[Illustration: "ETHEL OBTAINED A PAIR OF SCISSORS."]

The loss of the horses and drivers was a very embarrassing thing to
them, and for a time they were utterly at a loss what course to adopt.
Lady Dalrymple was too weak to walk, and they had no means of
conveying her. The maids had simply lost their wits from fright; and
Ethel could not see her way clearly out of the difficulty. At this
juncture they were roused by the approach of the Rev. Saul Tozer.

This reverend man had been bound as he descended from his carriage,
and had remained bound ever since. In that state he had been a
spectator of the struggle and its consequences, and he now came
forward to offer his services.

"I don't know whether you remember me, ma'am," said he to Lady
Dalrymple, "but I looked in at your place at Rome; and in any case I
am bound to offer you my assistance, since you are companions with me
in my bonds, which I'd be much obliged if one of you ladies would
untie or cut. Perhaps it would be best to untie it, as rope's
valuable."

At this request Ethel obtained a pair of scissors from one of the
maids, and after vigorous efforts succeeded in freeing the reverend
gentleman.

"Really, Sir, I am very much obliged for this kind offer," said Lady
Dalrymple, "and I avail myself of it gratefully. Can you advise us
what is best to do?"

"Well, m