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 may all fall into the hands of the gang, who no doubt are lurking about the castle."

"I have not a fear of that nature," said Madeline.

"I am sure I hope mine may be an idle one (cried Floretta); poor fellows! they would die a melancholy death if such an accident befell them. Well, Mam'selle, I must now leave you; there is fortunately a sliding wainscot in my chamber, and I shall go directly and hide all my good clothes within it; I shall then try if I can't prevail on the men to see what can be done with the old fire arms. But after all, Mam'selle, (resumed she, after pausing a minute) if the rogues once broke into the house, what comfort could I receive from knowing my clothes were hid, for to be sure I should be killed as well as the rest of the family, and what avails fine clothes or money, if one has no life to enjoy them." She now retired, and Madeline remained alone in a state of the most dreadful disquietude, till the arrival of the surgeon.