ake care thou art strict in
their observance as thou valuest my regard, or tremblest at the effects
of my wrath and indignation. However, to remove thy ridiculous and
ill-timed scruples, I must recall to thy mind that I cannot pursue
another course, for thou art aware that I am betrothed to Leonor; I must
not violate the sanctity of my promise, and thereby lose the favor of
the Queen, and incur the resentment of the justly offended Don Alonso de
Aguilar."

This last observation somewhat reconciled Roque to the necessity of the
measure, the more so as he hoped that, when at Granada, another plan
might be devised for Theodora, besides that of conventual reclusion; and
finally, as he knew that all further expostulation would be thrown away
upon his master, he prudently contented himself with shrugging up his
shoulders, and holding the stirrup for Don Lope to mount.

Gomez Arias briskly leaped upon his horse, and was about to depart, when
casting a last look on the victim he was deserting, the better feelings
of his heart seemed for a moment to struggle for predominance.

There is something peculiarly interesting in the sleep of a young and
beautiful woman; the features unruffled by anxiety or care, appear more
soft and attractive. The mind of the gazer scans with nicer accuracy her
charms, and dwells with fonder attention on each beauty of the lovely
sleeper. Besides the consciousness of so gentle, so helpless and so
heavenly a form, sleeping in innocent security, confiding in the
protection of man, and that very helplessness of her nature, awakens a
sentiment of sympathy and tenderness, as undefinable as it is thrilling
and transporting. And such was the sleep of Theodora: she was young and
replete with charms, and, alas! but too helpless and in need of
protection. Her beauteous form was displayed to the greatest advantage;
the sportive breeze now playing amidst her luxuriant hair, which
occasionally concealed a countenance beaming in loveliness, and hushed
in soft repose, imparted a degree of fairy grace and delicate freshness
to her charms. One of her arms was carelessly thrown over her, and with
the other she supported her head, while, unconscious of the fate with
which she was threatened, she slept on in security. And now a tinge of
animation illumined her countenance, or a fascinating smile played upon
her lips, as she dreamed perhaps, like the fond deserted Ariadne, that
her godlike lover was still watching over t