evidence of my own eyes, her continued safety. It seemed years already
since our last parting, when she had chosen to remain prisoner in those
savage hands. Father of all! how I loved her then; how I yearned to
have word with her, to read again the silent message of her pure eyes.

The priest was gazing silently far away up the valley. Busied with my
own thoughts, forgetting him utterly, I kept my eyes eagerly, hungrily
upon that single, far-off figure, until, finally, I saw her arise and
disappear within the open door. I growled forth a bitter curse,
observing the cause for retreat--a man and a woman slowly climbing the
mound together. There was no doubt in my mind as to the identity of
the Queen and De Noyan. Faith! but it would have pleased me then to
put hand upon the false coxcomb and choke him back to decency and duty.
The look of it was in my face, no doubt, as I stared down upon them in
helplessness, for the Jesuit rested his fingers gently upon my arm, as
though he would restrain my passion.

"There seemeth something below which angers you, my friend," he said
softly. "'Tis a battle-light flaming in your eyes."

"'Tis the shame of it all which crazes me," I responded, trembling with
passion, yet yielding to the influence of his presence. "You have not
yet heard the story, so cannot rightly judge our position here."

As briefly as possible I reviewed the adventures of our little party
since leaving New Orleans, and it was good to observe with what growing
interest he followed the simple story, interrupting with but few
questions until I reached the end. Then his soft hand closed warmly
over mine, his eyes upon my face.

"It is a brave tale," he said kindly, "one not unworthy the days of
knighthood. Yet, good friend, it is scarcely well for you to think
thus tenderly regarding the wife of another. 'T is against the laws of
Holy Church, and can only lead to harm and suffering. But, Mother of
God! who am I to pass judgment?--I, who am also guilty of this sin."

He had uplifted his crucifix, sitting with bowed head before it, with
so sad a face I could not forbear questioning.

"Have you, then, such another tale in your life?"

He did not look at me, yet hesitated not in reply.

"Ay, 'tis true, yet not so pure a one. I like not to dwell upon it
even in thought; but you have trusted me, and we are here together as
men of a common race in face of death. Perchance our hearts may better
comprehen