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Rh "The fine old house, lady, it has been burned to the ground." Beatrice struggled for a moment; but it was in vain. She hid her face in her hands, and wept bitterly. Strange, the affection which clings to inanimate objects—objects which cannot even know our love! But it is not return that constitutes the strength of an attachment. "They questioned your nurse," said Alvarez, "till her poor head was even more bewildered than usual; but it was soon very evident she knew nothing of the matter. Pedro knew even less; and at last the officer let them go. 'He would not have,' he said, 'the poor old creatures injured in any way.' They were sent off to the village, and then the house was fired." "I am glad," sighed Beatrice, "my father did not see it." "And now, Senhora, what is to be done about yourself? I have seen enough of you to know it is far best to tell you the truth. In about a week this cavern will be no refuge for you: its old occupants will be here. You will not be safe an hour in my cottage." "If," exclaimed Beatrice, "I could but get to the sea-shore, and embark for Naples!"