"Do not reproach yourself, dearest Monica. 'Twas my destiny. I am a true adherent of the Stuarts. Had I ten thousand lives I would give them all to King James and my country! I shall die with those sentiments on my lips."
As he spoke his pale cheek flushed, and his eye kindled with its former fire. She gazed at him with admiration.
But after a few moments a change came over his countenance, and with a look of ill-concealed anguish, he said:
"We must part to-night, dearest Monica. 'Tis better you should not come to me to-morrow."
"Nay, dearest Jemmy, I will attend you to the last."
"Impossible! it cannot be. My execution will be accompanied by barbarities worthy of savages, and not of civilised beings. You must not—shall not witness such a frightful spectacle."
"If the sight kills me I will be present."
"Since you are resolved, I will say no more. At least, you will see how firmly I can die."
Just then Mr. Jones came in to remind them that it was time to part, and with a tender embrace, Jemmy consigned her to his care.
On learning that she meant to attend the execution, Mr. Jones endeavoured to dissuade her, but she continued unshaken in her purpose.