“Make your meal first, dear young lady,” replied Dame Ipgreve. “Our news might take away your appetite, and you will have to pay for your supper, whether you eat it or not.”
“You alarm me greatly,” cried Viviana, anxiously. “What ill news do you bring?”
“I will not keep you longer in suspense, madam,” said Ruth. “You are to be examined to-night by the lieutenant and certain members of the Privy Council, and if you refuse to answer their questions, I lament to say you will be put to the torture.”
“Heaven give me strength to endure it!” ejaculated Viviana, in a despairing tone.
“Eat, madam, eat,” cried Dame Ipgreve, pressing the viands upon her. “You will never be able to go through with the examination, if you starve yourself in this way.”
“Are you sure,” inquired Viviana, appealing to Ruth, “that it will take place so soon?”
“Quite sure,” replied Ruth. “My father has orders to attend the lieutenant at midnight.”
“Let me advise you to conceal nothing,” insinuated the old woman. “They are determined to wring the truth from you,—and they will do so.”
“You are mistaken, good woman,” replied Viviana, firmly. “I will die before I utter a word.”
“You think so now,” returned Dame Ipgreve, maliciously. “But the sight of the rack and the thumbscrews will alter your tone. At all events, support nature.”