When he placed her in the carriage, she said, in a faint tone, "You
surely will not leave me?"
Thaddeus made no reply; then desiring Nanny to sit by the general
until his return, which should be in a few minutes, and having
stepped into the coach, Lady Sara snatched his hand, while in
dismayed accents she quickly said,
"Who was that fearful person?"
"Alas! the revered friend whose long illness Lady Tinemouth has
sometimes mentioned in your presence."
Lady Sara shuddered again, but with a rush of tears, while she added
imploringly, "Then, whither are you going to take me?"
"You shall again, dear Lady Sara," replied he, "return to guiltless
and peaceful home."
"I cannot meet my husband," cried she, wringing her hands; "he will
see all my premeditated guilt in my countenance. O! Constantine, have
pity on me! Miserable creature that I am! It is horrible to live
without you! It is dreadful to live with him! Take me not home, I
entreat you!"
The count took her clasped hands in his, saying,
"Reflect for a moment. Lady Tinemouth's eulogiums on our first
acquaintance taught me to honor you. I believe that when you
distinguished me with any portion of your regard, it was in
consequence of virtues which you thought I possessed."
"Indeed, you do me justice!" cried she, with renewed energy.
He continued, feeling that he must be stern in words as well as in
purpose if he would really rescue her from herself.
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