"Restore
my child, and we will then consider what mercy may be
extended to you."
"Well do I know what mercy dwells in such a heart as
yours," gloomily remarked the prisoner; "but I come."
"Surround the staff, men," ordered the governor, in a
low tone. "The instant he descends, secure him: lash him
in every limb, nor suffer even his insolent tongue to be
longer at liberty."
"Boyce, for God's sake open the gate, and place men in
readiness to lower the drawbridge," implored Sir Everard
of the officer of the guard, and in a tone of deep emotion
that was not meant to be overheard by the governor. "I
fear the boldness of this vengeful man may lead him to
some desperate means of escape."
While the officer whom he addressed issued a command,
the responsibility of which he fancied he might, under
the peculiar circumstances of the moment, take upon
himself, Wacousta began his descent, not as before, by
adhering to the staff, but by the rope which he held in
his left hand, while he still supported the apparently
senseless Clara against his right chest with the other.
"Now, Colonel de Haldimar, I hope your heart is at rest,"
he shouted, as he rapidly glided by the cord; "enjoy your
triumph as best may suit your pleasure.
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