"These misgivings are idle, Bertha. Bring me the child without more ado, or I will snatch it from its mother's arms."
"I cannot do it. The poor soul will go distracted when she finds she has lost her darling."
"What means this sudden change, Bertha?" he said, surprised and angry. "You had no such commiseration for her when we last talked over the matter. You were willing enough to aid me then."
"You tempted me by your offer; but I now repent. I understand the enormity of the offence, and will not burden my soul with so much guilt."
"You have gone too far to retreat. Having made a bargain you must fulfil it."
"Swear to me that you will not injure the child, or I will not bring it to you."
"I have already told you I do not mean to harm it."
"But swear by all you hold sacred that you have no design upon the child's life. Do this, or I will give the alarm."
"Attempt to utter a cry and I will kill you," he said, sternly. "I have not come here to be thwarted in my purpose. Go in at once."
Terrified by the menacing tone in which the order was given, Bertha obeyed, and returned to the room from which she had issued. Perhaps she might have fastened the door if time had been allowed, but the man in the mask followed her too quickly.