And he immediately held her little loyal form within the shelter of his arms, though when he rained burning kisses on her lips she struggled to be free.
"This is no time for that. Holy mother, what a rude man you are, Senor Roderic. Release me, I beg, I command. Remember he must win who wears. You have a duty to perform."
"Which shall be accomplished with Heaven's help. But I thought you were gone, sweetheart?"
"We are just starting—the cart is at the door, and uncle is waiting."
"Then he knows why you return?"
"Yes. He made only one stipulation."
"What is it?"
"Your promise not to move a hand until dawn, to prevent our sailing on the Sterling Castle."
Roderic breathed easier.
"Tell the dear old governor I give that most willingly. You know I leave here myself in a comparatively few hours."