If not, she
would assuredly do so at my persuasion. So, that objection you may
dismiss. As for the danger to which our marriage might expose us,
our love would dare that--ay, and things much worse.'
'You speak so confidently of the Gothic maiden?' said Silvia, with a
look half-timid, half-amused. 'Was there, then, a veritable
plighting of troth between you?'
'There was, dear cousin. From you I will conceal nothing, for you
are good, you are compassionate.'
And whilst he poured forth the story of his love, not without tears,
Silvia gave sympathetic attention. The lady Petronilla had never
been one of her intimates, nor was the deacon Leander among those
ecclesiastics whom she most reverenced. When Basil had told all, her
reply was ready. All she could do would be to endeavour to learn
whether Veranilda remained in the charge of Petronilla's
confederate, or had been given up to the Greeks. From conversation
she had heard, Silvia inclined to this belief, that Bessas and his
subordinates were still vainly seeking.
'I can make you no promise, good Basil; but I will take counsel with
my husband (whom you can trust as you trust me), and see if indeed
anything may be learnt.
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