And now farewell, but not for a long space--I go to bid adieu to the Ladies of Croye." "Thou ?" said Quentin, in astonishment--"thou be admitted to the presence of the ladies, and here, where they are in a manner recluses under the protection of the Bishop's sister, a noble canoness?
It is impossible." "Marthon, however, waits to conduct me to their presence," said the Zingaro, with a sneer, "and I must pray your forgiveness if I leave you something abruptly." He turned as if to depart, but instantly coming back, said, with a tone of deep and serious emphasis, "I know your hopes--they are daring, yet not vain if I aid them.

I know your fears, they should teach prudence, not timidity.

Every woman may be won.

A count is but a nickname, which will befit Quentin as well as the other nickname of duke befits Charles, or that of king befits Louis." Ere Durward could reply, the Bohemian had left the hall.

Quentin instantly followed, but, better acquainted than the Scot with the passages of the house, Hayraddin kept the advantage which he had gotten, and the pursuer lost sight of him as he descended a small back staircase.