I cannot enter into such a solemn engagement with a
fraud upon my conscience. I have seen Henry since his escape, and time
is all-important to him. Here is my hand; if, with this knowledge of
the consequences of delay, you will not reject it, it is freely
yours."

"Reject it!" cried the delighted youth; "I take it as the richest
gift of Heaven. There is time enough for us all. Two hours will
take me through the hills; and at noon to-morrow I will return with
Washington's pardon for your brother, and Henry will help to enliven
our nuptials."[128]

[Footnote 128: marriage.]

"Then meet me here in ten minutes," said Frances, greatly relieved by
unburdening her mind, and filled with the hope of securing Henry's
safety, "and I will return and take those vows which will bind me to
you forever."

Dunwoodie paused only to press her to his bosom, and flew to
communicate his wishes to the priest.

Dunwoodie and the clergyman were soon there. Frances, silently,
and without affectation[129] of reserve, placed in his hand the
wedding-ring of her own mother, and after some little time spent in
arranging Mr. Wharton and herself, Miss Peyton suffered the ceremony
to proceed.

[Footnote 129: pretence.]

The clock stood directly before the eyes of Frances, and she turned
many an anxious glance at the dial; but the solemn language of the
priest soon caught her attention, and her mind became intent upon the
vows she was uttering. The ceremony was quickly over, and as the
clergyman closed the words of benediction the clock told the hour of
nine. This was the time that was deemed so important, and Frances felt
as if a mighty load was at once removed from her heart.

The noise of a horseman was heard approaching the house, and Dunwoodie
was yet taking leave of his bride and aunt, when an officer was shown
into the room by his own man.

The gentleman wore the dress of an aid-de-camp, and the major knew him
to be one of the military family of Washington.

"Major Dunwoodie," he said, after bowing to the ladies, "the
commander-in-chief has directed me to give you these orders."

He executed his mission, and, pleading duty, took his leave
immediately.

"Here, indeed," cried the major, "is an unexpected turn in the whole
affair. But I understand it: Harper has got my letter, and already we
feel his influence."

"Have you news affecting Henry?" cried Frances, springing to his side.

"Listen, and you shall judge."