Capitola struggled so fiercely to free herself that Craven had enough to do to hold her, and so was not aware of a ringing footstep coming up the aisle, until a stunning blow dealt from a strong arm covered his face with blood and stretched him out at Capitola's feet.
Cap flushed, breathless and confused, looked up and was caught to the bosom of Herbert Greyson, who, pale with concentrated rage, held her closely and inquired:
"Capitola! What violence is this which has been done you? Explain! who is the aggressor?"
"Wai—wai—wait until I get my breath! There! that was good! That villain has all but strangled me to death? Oh, Herbert, I'm so delighted you've come! How is it that you always drop right down at the right time and on the right spot?" said Cap, while gasping for breath.
"I will tell you another time! Now I want an explanation."
"Yes, Herbert; I also wish to explain—not only to you but to these gaping, good people! Let me have a hearing!" said Cap.
"She is mad! absolutely mad!" cried Colonel Le Noir, who was assisting his son to rise.
"Silence, sir!" thundered Herbert Greyson, advancing toward him with uplifted and threatening hand.
"Gentlemen! gentlemen! pray remember that you are within the walls of a church!" said the distressed priest.
"Craven, this is no place for us; let us go and pursue our fugitive ward," whispered Colonel Le Noir to his son.