and myself together; and he, too, is confined in the Castle. This evening we were married,—to-morrow we were to have sailed for America. I had relied upon seeing you to-night, when I should have told you every thing. A pardon is all we ask—let Buckingham keep his ill-gotten estate; life, life is our only prayer. And in that far land, wherein our future lot will be cast, with what gratitude and what love shall we remember your name! A thousand thanks! Yours,
"Francesca."
"Stay yet one moment," said she, as she gave the note to Louis, and, approaching the dressing-table, took from a casket a Venetian chain, in which the purest gold was moulded by the most delicate workmanship. She flung it herself round the page's neck, and bade him "wear it for her sake."
"Not so, lady; believe me that the pleasure of serving you is its own best recompense," replied the youth, colouring.
"Nay," said she, "As a recompense it were indeed unworthy; but when I am far away.it will bring to your memory the gratitude of one to whom you have given life, and all that makes life dear."
