“Have I frightened you? I am so sorry, and yet I might have known. But, do not fear, I would be the last person in the world to harm you,” were the words which greeted her ears, in tones so soft and gentle that Brownie involuntarily raised her eyes, and was at once reassured, though still so weak and trembling from her first fright that she could not speak.
His head was very large for the rest of his body, and rested forward upon his breast, while his shoulders came up so high that he seemed to have no neck at all; one hand hung limp, withered, and helpless by his side, while one foot and leg were twisted entirely out of place, the heel being where the toe should be.
Ah! he was a sad-looking object, but Brownie felt no fear of him now.
He had a true, good face, full of intelligence and mental power, and while she looked into it, a great pity came into her eyes, and the tears involuntarily started.
He was quick to read her sympathy, for he said, with his sad smile:
“Thank you; I see you don’t fear me any longer.”
“Oh, no,” she answered, gently; “but I did not think any one could get in here, and I was startled at first.”
“I ought to have been more careful, but I did not like to speak loud enough to wake you, lest I should be heard,” and he glanced toward the door.
Then he added:
“Can you trust me sufficiently to let me take you out of this miserable place? I came to release you.”