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354 "My sad and solemn garb is a custom of my country," replied Francesca. "What can be so fitting as a religious dress for a time of tribulation, sorrow, and farewell?"

"No talk of farewell now," exclaimed Madame de Soissons, cordially embracing her friend. "I am sure your father will consent."

"I have really been so little consulted," answered Lord Avonleigh, "that any opinion of mine it is as superfluous to ask as to offer."

"Nay," said the King, "we have done with authority now; we shall only beg that you will add your pardon to our own."

"My father!" exclaimed Francesca, "I implore you, part from me not with an unkindly feeling. I entreat you to recollect that Robert Evelyn loved me as the lonely and neglected orphan; that our affection has been tried in every way; and that, for my sake, he has risked liberty and life. My father, had he perished on the scaffold, the same grave would have held us both!"

"Come, Lord Avonleigh," said Charles, "the house of Evelyn is as noble as your own, and a portion of the estate shall be restored."

"Thank you," said Buckingham, in a low tone, to Madame de Soissons.