You
would not--you durst not."
"Thou say'st truly, maiden," rejoined the Solitary; "I dare not--I would
not. Begone to thy dwelling. Fear nothing with which they threaten thee.
Thou hast asked my protection--thou shalt find it effectual."
"But, father, this very night I have consented to wed the man that I
abhor, or I must put the seal to my father's ruin."
"This night?--at what hour?"
"Ere midnight."
"And twilight," said the Dwarf, "has already passed away. But fear
nothing, there is ample time to protect thee."
"And my father?" continued Isabella, in a suppliant tone.
"Thy father," replied the Dwarf, "has been, and is, my most bitter
enemy. But fear not; thy virtue shall save him. And now, begone; were
I to keep thee longer by me, I might again fall into the stupid dreams
concerning human worth from which I have been so fearfully awakened. But
fear nothing--at the very foot of the altar I will redeem thee. Adieu,
time presses, and I must act!"
He led her to the door of the hut, which he opened for her departure.
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