Page:The Country-House Party.djvu/37

Rh 'I outrode my pursuers, but my horse gave up on the edge of this wood. He's there now, stiff and cold, poor beast, but I had still my treasure taken from my uncle's safe.

'I lay with my head upon my wallet, worn with sleep, and in the night a slim rogue drew it away; but I had still my life. Then I sought this river, for by it I can go to safety; and there I have found the woman I love!' He took her hands, and laid them on his breast.

'But if the woman I love will have none of me, my life is then at an end, and I have lost all. I will not any longer evade my pursuers.' He bent a listening ear towards the dark recesses of the wood, and far away the woman could hear the cries of men and the baying of dogs.

'They are coming,' she cried, and trembled. 'How shall I save you?'

'By coming with me,' he said softly, and went his way to the river. A little boat rocked softly beside the shore. Without a word she entered it, and bade him row.

She took the steering gear in her hands, and watched with anxiety his preparations for progress.