The knowledge of it would only add to her distress." "You view the matter too unfavourably," replied Leonard; "and if the secret is of any moment, I entreat you to confide it to me.

If your worst apprehensions should prove well founded, I promise you it shall never be revealed to her." "On that condition only, I will confide it to you," replied the piper; "but not now--not now--to-morrow morning, if I am alive." "It may be out of your power then," returned Leonard, "For your daughter's sake, I urge you not to delay." "It is for her sake I am silent," rejoined the piper.

"Come along--come along" he added, hurrying forward.

"Are we far from the pest-house?
My strength is failing me." On arriving at their destination, they were readily admitted to the asylum; but a slight difficulty arose, which, however, was speedily obviated.

All the couches were filled, but on examining them it was found that one of the sick persons had just been released from his sufferings, and the body being removed, the piper was allowed to take its place.