“Be careful you do not meet him,” said Arctura.
There was no difficulty now, either in going or returning. He sped, and in a space that even to Arctura seemed short, was back. There was no time to use the file: he attacked the staple, and drew it from the bed-post, then wound the chain about her arm, and tied it there.
He had already made up his mind what to do with her. He had been inclined to carry her away from the house: Doory would take care of her! But he saw that to leave the enemy in possession would be to yield him an advantage. Awkward things might result from it! the tongues of inventive ignorance and stupidity would wag wildly! He would take her to her room, and there watch her as he would the pearl of price!
“There! you are free, my lady,” he said. “Now come.”
He took her hands, and she raised herself wearily.
“The air is so stifling!” she said.
“We shall soon have better!” answered Donal.
“Shall we go on the roof?” she said, like one talking in her sleep.
“I will take you to your own room,” replied Donal. “—But I will not leave you,” he added quickly, seeing a look of anxiety cloud her face, “—so long as your uncle is in the house.”
“Take me where you will,” rejoined Arctura.