Chapter 16

_Voice within_. If you scream, I must muffle you.

_Julian (rushing up the stair_). He _is_ there! His hand is on her mouth! She tries to scream!

[_Flinging the door open, as_ NEMBRONI _springs forward on the other side_.]

Back!

_Nembroni_. What the devil!--Beggar!

[_Drawing his sword, and making a thrust at_ JULIAN, _which he parries with his left arm, as, drawing his dagger, he springs within_ NEMBRONI'S _guard_.]

_Julian (taking him by the throat_). I have faced worse storms than you.

[_They struggle_.]

Heart point and hilt strung on the line of force,

[_He stabs him_.]

Your ribs will not mail your heart!

[NEMBRONI _falls dead_. JULIAN _wipes his dagger on the dead man's coat_.]

If men _will_ be devils, They are better in hell than here.

[_Lightning flashes on the blade_.]

What a night For a soul to go out of doors! God in heaven!

[_Approaches the lady within_.]

Ah! she has fainted. That is well. I hope It will not pass too soon. It is not far To the half-hidden door in my own fence, And that is well. If I step carefully, Such rain will soon wash out the tell-tale footprints. What! blood? _He_ does not bleed much, I should think! Oh, I see! it is mine--he has wounded me. That's awkward now.

[_Takes a handkerchief from the floor by the window_.]

Pardon me, dear lady;

[_Ties the handkerchief with hand and teeth round his arm_.]

'Tis not to save my blood I would defile Even your handkerchief.

[_Coming towards the door, carrying her_.]

I am pleased to think Ten monkish months have not ta'en all my strength.

[_Looking out of the window on the landing_.]

For once, thank darkness! 'Twas sent for us, not him.

[_He goes down the stair_]