"But there is that about him I never could love, were he as young as—I never can love him—I hate him, and I will not wed him."
"But, my dear, dear, dearest young lady, what will you do?" The thought never entering her head that the Lady Isoleth could do any thing but submit to the will of others; for woman in those times was sought and given in marriage without often consulting her own inclination.
What will I do, dear nurse? Why I will fall on my knees at the feet of my beloved guardian and plead with him. He never refused me any thing; and I know he will grant—"
"But your father's will, dearest lady—"
"Shall be put aside, where his daughter's happiness is at stake."
"Would it may be as you wish, sweetest lady. But I fear. Still he is a right noble prince, and will make a right noble husband."
"Not for me."
CHAPTER III.
THE SURPRISE.
In the saddest of sad moods the Lady Isoleth betook herself to her favorite retreat among the rocks, and there within her own little vine-covered bower, was—not a bird, nor a squirrel, nor her tame deer—but a man! young and wondrously handsome; with a broad, pale, noble brow, and a host of jet-black curls shading it. There was something in his clear, dark eye, so still and serene as it gazed beyond this world, and something in the expression of his fine, manly face, so tender, so almost sad, that made her forget to be afraid of him. She approached him gently, and asked him in a soft voice,