It was some moments ere he could reply, and he did so then with a forced smile and a quivering lip.
"Jest not so, Irene! Last!--that is not a word for us!" "But hear me, my Lord--" "Why so cold ?--call me Adrian!--friend!--lover! or be dumb!" "Well, then, my soul's soul! my all of hope! my life's life!" exclaimed Irene, passionately, "hear me! I fear that we stand at this moment upon some gulf whose depth I see not, but which may divide us for ever! Thou knowest the real nature of my brother, and dost not misread him as many do.

Long has he planned, and schemed, and communed with himself, and, feeling his way amidst the people, prepared the path to some great design.

But now--( thou wilt not betray--thou wilt not injure him ?--he is thy friend!)" "And thy brother! I would give my life for his! Say on!" "But now, then," resumed Irene, "the time for that enterprise, whatever it be, is coming fast.

I know not of its exact nature, but I know that it is against the nobles--against thy order--against thy house itself! If it succeed--oh, Adrian! thou thyself mayst not be free from danger; and my name, at least, will be coupled with the name of thy foes.

If it fail,--my brother, my bold brother, is swept away! He will fall a victim to revenge or justice, call it as you will.