Page:The Castle of Wolfenbach - Parsons - 1854.djvu/217

 seized the opportunity; taking the letter and a louis-d'or out of her pocket, "If you have charity, (said she) let that letter be sent to the post." The woman, surprised, took the letter and money, and going to speak, Matilda heard his footsteps; she put her finger to her lips; the other understood, and thrust both into her bosom. Joy and hope gave her spirits and when he told her she must pursue her journey, she arose with difficulty, but without speaking, and was rather carried than walked to the chaise. When they drove off she recollected she had forgot to ask the name of the town; she put the question to him. "Faith, I have forgot," was his answer. She said no more.

The two gentlemen talked of indifferent matters, which afforded her no information; she therefore resigned herself to her own contemplations until they arrived at a sea port town.

She was astonished when he told her they were to embark on board a vessel. "Where are you going to carry me to?" (said she, trembling.) "To Germany, doubtless," (replied he.) "By water?" "Yes, by water: but ask no questions, Matilda; I am once more your uncle during this voyage, to preserve your character." "And do you think, Sir, (said she, assuming courage under a palpitating heart) do you think I will give a sanction to your falsehoods, and permit myself to be made a slave of?" "You will find (answered he) you can have no voice to alter my determinations; but I will now make you a fair proposal, if you will consent to marry me, I will, in this very town, receive your hand, and without scruple then carry you to join your friends: if you refuse, I will not part with you, but where I propose carrying you, shall be entire master of your destiny. The old story is propagated by my servant, that you are my niece, and I am saving you from a shameful marriage with a footman." "Good God! (cried she) is my character thus traduced? And do