he uttered these words, and both Edric and Roderick sprang involuntarily to the spot—it was vacant; they searched the wood, but no creature was to be seen.
"It was fancy," said Edric.
"It was the Mummy," murmured the King, "come to chide me for doubting his promises for an instant."
"The Mummy!" cried Edric; "good God! what do you mean?" and he gazed with horror upon the wild and haggard countenance of his friend, who he seriously believed had become distracted. His look recalled the fleeting senses of Roderick, and with a ghastly smile he replied, "I am not mad, though I have enough to make me so. We must return to Ireland without a moment's delay, and there reinforce my army. Elvira must be restored immediately, for her life is in danger from every moment's delay."
"I hope not," said Edric; "for, though I detest Rosabella, I do not think her capable of assassination."
"If she be not, Father Morris is," returned Roderick, in a low voice, with a look of intense feeling.
