"Nay, if that be the case," said Hayraddin, unloosing his hold, "go – and the devil, if there be one, go along with you!" – And, soon as freed from his hold, the Scot shot back to the castle with the speed of the wind.
Hayraddin then turned round to the Countess Hameline, who had sunk down on the ground, between shame, fear, and disappointment.
"Here has been a mistake," he said; "up, lady, and come with me – I will provide you, ere morning comes, a gallanter husband than this smock-faced boy; and if one will not serve, you shall have twenty."
The Lady Hameline was as violent in her passions, as she was vain and weak in her understanding. Like many other persons, she went tolerably well through the ordinary duties of life; but in a crisis like the present, she was entirely incapable of doing aught, save pouring forth unavailing lamentations, and accusing Hayraddin of being a thief, a base slave, an impostor, a murderer.
"Call me Zingaro," returned he, composedly, "and you have said all at once."
"Monster! you said the stars had decreed our union, and caused me to write – O wretch that I was!" exclaimed the unhappy lady.
"And so they had decreed your union," said Hayraddin, "had both parties been willing – but think you the blessed constellations can make any one wed against his will? – I was led into error with your accursed Christian gallantries, and fopperies of ribbons and favours – and the youth prefers veal to beef, I think – that's all. – Up and follow me; and take notice, I endure neither weeping nor swooning."
"I will not stir a foot," said the Countess, obstinately.
"By the bright welkin, but you shall, though!" exclaimed Hayraddin. "I swear to you, by all that ever fools believed in, that you have to do with one, who would care little to strip you naked, bind you to a tree, and leave you to your fortune!"
"Nay," said Marthon, interfering, "by your favour, she shall not be misused. I wear a knife as well as you, and can use it – She is a kind woman, though a fool. – And you, madam, rise up and follow us – Here has been a mistake; but it is something to have saved life and limb. There are many in yonder castle would give all the wealth in the world to stand where we do now."