"Nay—for he came!"
"He came! Jest not in a matter like this! He came? Thou knowest of all mankind I have reasons to wish this youth well,—this one at least!" said Nilus somewhat incoherently.
"He came,—once,—twice,—many times! He came, I say, and—-"
"What of him? Thou hast not had him harmed for trusting his enemy?"
Stephania's cheek took the hues of marble.
"Harmed? I would rather perish myself than that he should come to harm."
Nilus was silent for a moment or two, and Stephania, as if to take courage, timidly took his hand, holding it between her own.
"I must needs avow my whole offence," she stammered, "he came,—and—"
"Why dost pause, daughter?" questioned the monk, with penetrating look.
"Nay—but hear me!" continued Stephania. "I first intended but to win his confidence,—then,—having drawn him out—expose him to the just laughter of my court."