"Be not surprised, not alarmed, therefore, when to-morrow morning I serve the warrant with all due state and ceremony. Yet will I not attach his body until he shall have regained his strength if you, Sir John, will give me your word of honour that no attempt at escape be made on his behalf."
"I give you my word, Mr. Sheriff," said Sir John, "and I count it an act of friendship on your part that you have thus given me warning."
The Sheriff rose from his seat, advanced towards Sir John, and shook his hand heartily.
"My good friend," said he, "would to God that I could do more for you! but keep a good heart, for you have many a friend both at Court and in the city."
So saying, the kind-hearted Sheriff made his adieux and took his departure.
Susan had borne up bravely during this brief interview; yet, when the Sheriff had gone, and she and Sir John were left to themselves, her fortitude gave way, and she began to sob gently.
Sir John moved to her side and took her hand caressingly.
"Is this the brave and trusty nurse," he said to her in a low voice, "of whom I was so proud to-day?
"Oh, Susan, dear Susan, have faith in God; let us kneel together and commit the whole matter to His most gracious keeping!