Page:Romance & Reality 3.pdf/101

Rh "I feel an internal conviction that he lives; and he must not come to a desolate and deserted home, and find that his child has forgotten him for a stranger. Take the packet to Naples, make every inquiry: if my father live, we may be so happy in your beautiful England." "But why not go with me? Why delay, nay, risk, our happiness? Young, isolated, as you are, surely, my sweet Beatrice, your father would rejoice in your content and safety." "The God to whose care his last words resigned me, has been my guide through dangers and difficulties. I am still secure in such reliance. You know not my love for my father, when you bid me separate my destiny from his—to think not of his wishes—and to be happy, while he perhaps is wretched and suffering. I will at least endeavour to learn his will; and, dearest Lorraine"—the colour flushed her cheek, like a rose, at these words—"the sweetest song I have sung was the saddest, and it spoke of a broken vow and a broken heart. I would fain put the love you tell me is so true to the test. Is there such change in a few weeks that you dread to try?"