"Margaret—cheer up—it's me—it's Skilligalee—I'm come to save you," said the protector of the Rattlesnake as he bent over her.
"How long has she been immured here?" inquired Markham.
"Only three or four hours," answered Skilligalee; "and so it must be fright that has half killed her. Pray get some water, sir—there's plenty in the scullery."
Markham hastened to comply with this request; and Skilligalee bathed the woman's face with the refreshing element.
She opened her eyes, and a smile came over her faded countenance as she caught sight of the friendly face that greeted her fearful glance.
"How long have I been here?" asked the Rattlesnake in a faint tone, while her whole frame was convulsed with terror as recent events rushed to her mind.
"Not many hours, Meg," answered Skilligalee.
"And you will not leave me here any longer?" she said. "Oh! do not let me die in this horrible place!"
"I am come to save you," returned Skilligalee. "Are you able to get up and walk?"
"Yes—for the sake of freedom," cried the Rattlesnake, rising from the mattress. "But who is that?" she added, as her eyes now fell upon Markham for the first time.