Page:Clermont - Roche (1798, volume 4).djvu/144

 "You may imagine I was not a little confounded when, on arriving at the castle, the first object almost I beheld was Lafroy: the alarm of my soul, which my countenance I believe too faithfully depicted, he however tried to dissipate by a secret look, and a slight pressure of his hand upon his heart, as if to assure me of his fidelity.

"At night, when I was undressing, he entered my apartment—'Pardon my intrusion, my Lord (said he), but I could not refrain from coming to express my joy at seeing you, as I may say, risen from the grave; for the monk assured me you were dead. He might have confided in me; I pledged a solemn oath never to betray you; and, though but a servant, I have ever been taught to consider a promise as sacred.'

"Excuse the caution of old age, Lafroy, (replied I); 'twas not by my desire the monk deceived you.'

'Certainly, my Lord (said he); I allow too much caution could not be practised then, nor is there less occasion for it now; as I am con-