"My own dear father! My own dear father has saved me. I called and called and counted the falling drops of water. Sometimes I screamed when the ropes bit sharpest. But I called after every hundred drops had fallen. Then I heard a step——"
She fainted again, and, seeking for the dropping water that she mentioned, Malherb found bread and meat where John Lee had placed it.
He restored his daughter's consciousness, then made her eat and drink. After she had done so he finished the remainder of the food, and marvelled at himself that his appetite was keen.
"Come," he said, "now, with my hand to help, your strength will lift you out of this den for ever."
Anon they reached the air.
"A century has gone over my head since dawn," he said.
The girl took deep inhalations and looked at the sky.
"To see the dear stars again! Speak to me, father—speak and hold my hand. I have come to fear silence. Have you forgiven—can you forgive me for all the suffering I have brought?"
He held her hand and pressed it, but did not answer.
Slowly they moved away; then Grace stopped.