"Madam," said Traverse, after a thoughtful pause, "our fates have been

more nearly connected than you could have imagined. Those Le Noirs have

been my enemies as they are yours. That young orphan heiress, who

appealed from their cruelty to the Orphans' Court, was my own

betrothed. Willow Heights was her patrimony and is now her quiet home

where she lives with my mother, and where in their names I invited you

to come. And take this comfort also; your enemy no longer lives: months

ago I left him ill with a mortal wound. This morning the papers

announce his death. There remains, therefore, but little for me to do,

but to take legal measures to free you from this place, and restore you

to your home. Within an hour I shall set out for New Orleans, for the

purpose of taking the initiatory steps. Until my return then, dear

lady," said Traverse, respectfully taking her hand--"farewell, and be

of good cheer!"




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