Thou wouldst have Cherry for a sister.

Thou--" But Petronella shrank away a little, and looked scared at the thought.

Hers was one of those timid natures that find it easier to endure even a terrible wrong than to take a bold step to escape from it.

The life of the forest might have attracted her, for she loved the freedom of the woodlands, and had no fears of loneliness or privation.

But she had heard from Cuthbert of the bands of outlaws and gipsies, of Long Robin and his murderous hatred; and of other perils which she felt she had scarce courage to face.