"Ay, with you, Virginia! You know that there are on the island some restless and turbulent spirits—late soldiers of the Protector. They have some dangerous project brewing I am well satisfied, from circumstances which accidentally fell under my own observation. You know too that the Recluse is said to have unbounded influence with these desperate men, and to be familiar with all their designs and movements. And notwithstanding your childish dread of him, you know that he loves you more than any living creature."
"I know all the things you speak of, except the last, and for that I suspect I am indebted to your imagination; but to what does all this lead?"
"I have just returned from a visit to that strange and mysterious old man, and as I have already hinted, hastened hither for the purpose of seeking an interview with you, which fortune has so opportunely thrown in my way."
"But I am yet in the dark. Why did you hasten from the Recluse to me, after discovering the things you speak of?"
"I will tell you; but you must be cool, calm and considerate while I do so, because I have that to tell and that to propose which will astound you!"
"Oh do tell it at once then, and not play upon my feelings thus."
"Your father's and your uncle's life is in danger, Virginia! Heaven, what have I done?" he continued, as he saw his companion turn deadly pale and lean against the palisade for support. But instantly recovering herself she asked—
"Whence does this danger come?"
"That I do not know exactly; but the Recluse knows, and I have been vainly endeavouring to learn it from him; and this brings me to the proposition which I have to make. You must visit him this night! 'Ay, Virginia! start not, you must do it for your father's and your uncle's sake!"
"Visit the Recluse, and at night! What will my parents say to it, think you?"