Forget that so stern a vision has crossed your path of life; and let me pursue mine, sure that I can meet with no worse misfortune after the moment it divides me from your side." Lucy wept on, but her tears were less bitter.

Each attempt which the Master made to explain his purpose of departure only proved a new evidence of his desire to stay; until, at length, instead of bidding her farewell, he gave his faith to her for ever, and received her troth in return.

The whole passed so suddenly, and arose so much out of the immediate impulse of the moment, that ere the Master of Ravenswood could reflect upon the consequences of the step which he had taken, their lips, as well as their hands, had pledged the sincerity of their affection.
"And now," he said, after a moment's consideration, "it is fit I should speak to Sir William Ashton; he must know of our engagement.

Ravenswood must not seem to dwell under his roof to solicit clandestinely the affections of his daughter." "You would not speak to my father on the subject ?" said Lucy, doubtingly; and then added more warmly: "Oh do not--do not! Let your lot in life be determined--your station and purpose ascertained, before you address my father.

I am sure he loves you--I think he will consent; but then my mother----!" She paused, ashamed to express the doubt she felt how far her father dared to form any positive resolution on this most important subject without the consent of his lady.
"Your mother, my Lucy!" replied Ravenswood.