The woman surveyed me with sudden scorn.
"So you will stay here, the dupe of your own sentiments and dreams!"—she said, contemptuously—"You, a woman, will remain among a community of men who are known impostors, and sacrifice your name and reputation to a mere chimera!"
Her look and manner had completely changed, and I was at once on my guard.
"My name and reputation are my own to protect,"—I answered, coldly—"Whatever I do I shall be ready to answer for to anyone having the right to ask."
The old man now advanced and laid his hand on my arm. His eyes sparkled angrily.
"You must be saved from yourself"—he said, sharply, "You must come with us whether you will or no! We have seen too many victims of Aselzion's art already—we are resolved to save you from the peril which threatens you."
And he made an effort to draw me closer to him—but my spirit was up and I held back with all my force.
"No, I will not go with you!" I exclaimed, hotly—"God alone shall remove me from harm if any harm is really meant towards me. I do not believe one word you have said against Rafel Santoris or against Aselzion—I love the one, and I trust the other!—let me go my own way in peace!"
Hardly had I spoken these words when both the old man and woman threw themselves upon me and seizing me by force, endeavoured to drag me away with them. I resisted with all my strength, still holding tightly the book of the 'Secret of Life' in one hand. But their united efforts were beginning to overpower me, and feeling myself growing weaker and weaker I cried aloud in desperation:
"Rafel! Rafel!"