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Rh union, and her refusal seemed both stubborn and ungrateful. He urged our marriage upon her by every argument; he entreated, and, at last, threatened. 'Marry the only friend we have left,' exclaimed he, 'or leave my roof, disobedient and thankless as you are!'

"With even a paler cheek than usual, she quitted the apartment; and Carrara, whose anger had evaporated in utterance, reproached himself for his impatient words. 'Poor thing! the very name of love must be so sad to her!' continued he; 'it is no easy task to soothe the stricken heart. This is an ill requital, Arden, of your generous affection; but I fear me Beatrice has chosen a lover constant, at least,—Death! We may bind her a bridal wreath, but its flowers will be scattered over her grave!' 'Urge her no more,' I exclaimed; 'I will not again vex her ear with words of love, however true, however deep: ours is an evil destiny, and we may not control it!"

"The old man pressed my hand in silent kindness, and I left the house. An aged domestic, their sole attendant, followed me out. 'My young mistress,' said she, 'bade me give you this note when you had quitted the signor's room.' Here is the scroll!" cried Arden, rising from his seat and taking it from his bosom; "for years these