is precarious
health, would probably sink under a similar attack of the dragoons,
and that it would be expedient for me to return to him at dusk with a
covered cart, well supplied with hay, and to place him thereon and bring
him back with me, to be kept at our house, in secresy and safety, till
he should be able to escape from the kingdom--"though this would have
been an easier matter to effect," observed my father, "before he had
made himself personally obnoxious to the bishop."

My father then went to his daily business at the silk-factory, while I
remained behind awhile with my mother, to assist her in clearing out a
loft for my uncle's reception, the entrance to which could be concealed.

I then paid a hasty visit to Madeleine, whom I found bathed in tears,
as she had learnt from my mother that I had been away all night; and
though this at another time would have occasioned no alarm, yet at
a season of so much uneasiness she had foreboded some sad calamity.
My sudden appearance caused a fresh flow of tears, but they were of
thankfulness for my safety. A few tender words reassured her. I then
gave her a short account of what had passed, taking care, as my uncle
desired me, not to make things worse than they were. But still it was
evident that he was marked for the victim of a persecution he was not
in a condition to support; and as Madeleine had a sincere regard for
him, which his character justly merited, she commended me for standing
by him, and rejoiced that I was going to fetch him to our house.

"We have not been quite undisturbed, even during your short absence,"
said she. "Our evening service was yesterday interrupted, just as the
congregation were in the middle of a psalm, by several officials rudely
entering the temple, and commanding us to desist, because the Host was
being carried by."

"In the temper in which those in authority seem to be at present," said
I, "it is to be feared that things will grow worse before they mend."

"Meanwhile, remember your father's admonition, I entreat you," said
Madeleine; "and, as much as lieth in you, live peaceably with all men."

"Rely on it, sweet Madeleine," said I. "I am a man of peace, not of war."

Cheered by my little interview with her, I proceeded to my usual work,
and, after supping with my family, stole quietly forth on my mission.

I reached the neighboring town without misadventure, and, leaving the
cart out of sight, raised my uncle's latch and went i