Chapter 58

"Heed not that, Miss Auriol--you may outlive me; the end of this month will see me far away from Britain." She gazed at me earnestly and wistfully, and said-- "Heaven bless and protect you, sir! My last prayers shall be for you and for your safety," and bowing her face upon my hand, she kissed it and wept, while I strove in vain to withdraw it; but at the same time placed the other kindly on her head, to soothe and reassure her. At that moment the door of the little parlour was thrown violently open, and a cry of …