"Is quite well, and with me, but not very happy in her present situation; but he is a dangerous, violent, implacable man, and I dare not disobey him. I advise you as a friend, to consent to his wishes."
"That requires some deliberation," replied I, "and I am not one of those who are to be driven. My feelings towards Sir Henry, after this treatment, are not the most amicable; besides, how am I to know that Fleta is his relative?"
"Well, I can say no more, Japhet. I wish you well out of his hands."
"You have the power to help me, if that is the case," said I.
"I dare not."
"Then you are not the Melchior that you used to be," replied I.
"We must submit to fate. I must not stay longer; you will find all that you want in the basket, and more candles, if you do not like being in the dark. I do not think I shall be permitted to come again, till to-morrow."
Melchior then went out, locked the door after him, and I was left to my meditations.