My heart thumped so loud that I could detect no words, but not so loud as to keep me from locating the sound. Yes, it came from a little house used as a summer bower. Instantly my mind was made up. I had no patience to consider whether my determination was wise or foolish. I madly dreamed that Naomi was near crying for my help. Else why should I hear my own name, or why should I think it was the voice of my love?
In another second I had leapt from the tree, and then ran along by the wall until I came close to the place where the bower had been placed.
I listened again. Yes, I heard sobs—sobs which came from a breaking heart!
The wall was, as I said, from fifteen to twenty feet high, but this did not deter me. I caught hold of an ivy branch, and by its aid sought to climb, but at the first pull I had torn it away. So there was nothing for me but to stick my fingers into the masonry and climb as best I could. How I managed I know not, but in a few seconds I had accomplished my purpose.
"Naomi!" I whispered, but I heard no answer.
I waited a few seconds and spoke again: "Naomi, my love," I said, "it is Jasper."
At that I heard a movement from within the bower, and then I saw some one come into the garden. It was a woman. I saw her look eagerly around, like one afraid. Then her face was turned toward me. It was my love!
"Naomi," I said, "do not be afraid; it is Jasper—Jasper Pennington comes to set you free."
Then she saw me and gave a glad cry.