[61]
Matilda lay. This prevented the Princess from renewing the conversation with the stranger.
After continuing silent for some time; I am persuaded, said she to Bianca, that whatever be the cause of Isabella's flight it had no unworthy motive. If this stranger was accessary to it, she must be satisfied with his fidelity and worth. I observed, did not you, Bianca? that his words were tinctured with an uncommon infusion of piety. It was no ruffian's speech: His phrases were becoming a man of gentle birth. I told you, Madam, said Bianca, that I was sure he was some Prince in disguise—yet, said Matilda, if he was privy to her escape, how will you account for his not accompanying her in her flight? why expose himself unnecessarily and rashly to my Father's resentment? As for that, Madam, replied she, if he could get from under the helmet, he will find ways of eluding your Father's anger. I do not doubt but he has some talisman or other about him—You resolve every thing into magic; said Matilda—but a man who hasany
