Listen to me, and I will disclose all the details of the plots
which are even now ripening to ensnare you,"--and Vernon, in a low tone,
briefly narrated everything, and the means which were in operation to
secure her safety.
"You must go to Bellevue to-morrow, there to meet my father and Captain
Carroll," said he.
The color came to her pale cheek, at the mention of her lover's name.
She felt that Vernon meant to be true to her, and true to himself. And
it required no persuasion to induce her to acquiesce in the
arrangements.
"But, Hatchie--must I leave him in prison? It is not a meet reward for
his fidelity."
"It cannot be avoided, Miss Dumont. I will see him to-day, and when his
honest heart knows that you are in safety, he will be just as happy in a
prison as in a palace. He shall be set at liberty in a few days."
"I hope he may. Does this De Guy accompany you?"
"No; but Maxwell says he will reach Bellevue as soon as we do."
"Why is this? Why does not Maxwell present himself, and urge his
infamous proposals?"
"I know not, unless it be that De Guy is the more artful of the two.
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