Page:Francesca Carrara 3.pdf/345

342 to communicate with her. Now, as her father has locked the door, this can only be effected through the window. Do you think you could manage your entrance to the Lady Francesca's chamber?"

"Ay, were it twice as high. The old ivy is as good as a ladder. But, unless I am much mistaken, it must be quite easy to get from your own window to hers;"—and, so saying, he softly unclosed the further lattice. "Yes," exclaimed he, "yonder turret is easily gained,—nothing like your old houses!”

"Mon Dieu!" said Marie, "but the height is fearful! Dare I hazard your life?"

"I would indeed hazard it," replied Louis; "but here I have not even the satisfaction of running a little danger for your sake. Now, what am I to say or do?"

"Give this note to Lady Francesca, and bring me back her answer. But, for the love of Heaven, be careful!"

The page laughed recklessly, and sprang upon the window-sill; in an instant he disappeared.

Marie stood breathless for a moment and then hurried to the open lattice, and watched the boy's progress. The moon had set; but, as such nights are never quite dark, she could see the shadowy outline of the slender figure as it passed along.