“Miss Sarah,” he said in a hoarse, low voice.
They were so near to each other, that their breaths mingled, and Daniel felt Miss Brandon’s sobs on his heart, burning him like fiery flames. Then, half drunk with excitement, forgetting every thing, he pressed his lips upon the lips of this strange girl.
But she, starting up instantly, drew back, and cried,—
“Daniel! unhappy man!”
Then breaking out in sobs, she stammered,—
“Go! I pray you go! I ask for nothing now. If I must be lost, I must.”
And he replied with terrible vehemence,—
“Your will shall be done, Sarah; I am yours. You may count upon me.”
And he rushed out like a madman, down the staircase, taking three steps at once, and, finding the house-door open, out into the street.