No, no! you have been gentle and kind, as
few others have been, to the poor orphan; and, though I would still see
and hear you, I would not that you should suffer. I would rather suffer
myself."
Much of this was evidently uttered with the most childish
unconsciousness. Her mind was obviously deeply excited with her fears,
and when the youth assured her, in answer to her inquiries, that he
should proceed in the morning on his journey, she interrupted him
quickly--
"To-day--to-day--now--do not delay, I pray you. You know not the perils
which a night may bring forth."
When assured that he himself could perceive no cause of peril, and when,
with a manner sufficiently lofty, he gave her to understand that a
feeling of pride alone, if there were no other cause, would prevent a
procedure savoring so much of flight, she shook her head mournfully,
though saying nothing. In reply to his offer of service, she returned
him her thanks, but assuring him he could do her none, she retired from
the apartment.
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