"The first and most obvious means that suggests itself to my mind," said Cap, "is to—run away!"
"Ah! that is impossible. The servants are warned; the doors are all locked; I am watched!"
"Then the next plan is equally obvious. Consent to go with them to the church, and when you get there, denounce them and claim the protection of the clergyman!"
"Ah! dear girl, that is still more impracticable. The officiating clergyman is their friend, and even if I could consent to act a deceitful part, and should go to church as if to marry Craven and upon getting there denounce him, instead of receiving the protection of the clergyman I should be restored to the hands of my legal guardian and be brought back here to meet a fate worse than death," said Clara, in a tone of despair.
Capitola did not at once reply, but fell into deep thought, which lasted many minutes. Then, speaking more gravely than she had spoken before, she said:
"There is but one plan of escape left, your only remaining chance, and that full of danger!"
"Oh, why should I fear danger? What evil can befall me so great as that which now threatens me?" said Clara.
"This plan requires on your part great courage, self-control and presence of mind."
"Teach me! teach me, dear Capitola. I will be an apt pupil!"
"I have thought it all out, and will tell you my plan. It is now eleven o'clock in the forenoon, and the carriage is to come for you at six this evening, I believe?"