“He speaks the truth, dear father,” returned Viviana. “You must not—shall not depart. There are plenty of hiding-places, as you know, within the mansion. Let them be as rigorous as they may in their search, they will not discover you.”
“Whatever course you adjudge best for the security of others, I will pursue,” rejoined Oldcorne, turning to Catesby. “Put me out of the question.”
“My opinion has already been given, father,” replied Catesby. “Remain where you are.”
“But, if the officers should ascertain that my father is at Chester, and pursue him thither?” cried Viviana, suddenly struck by a new cause of alarm.
“A messenger must be immediately despatched after him to give him warning,” returned Catesby.
“Will you be that messenger?” asked the maiden, eagerly.
“I would shed my heart's best blood to pleasure you,” returned Catesby.
“Then I may count upon this service, for which, rest assured, I will not prove ungrateful,” she rejoined.
“You may,” answered Catesby. "And yet I would, on Father Oldcorne's account, that my departure might be delayed till to-morrow.”
“The delay might be fatal,” cried Viviana. “You must be in Chester before that time.”