He is of noble birth, there is none nobler; he is young and
strong, and should be favoured by the Gods if he prove worthy of them.
He is a fitting bridegroom for Haco's daughter."
The girl was dazed and trembling. She knew this chief: he answered
Judith's description, but was rough and coarse. Had she not met Jean
she might not have dared to refuse, but now she felt that death would be
more welcome than this marriage. "Spare me, mother!" she said, as if she
had not heard the disclaimer of maternity. "I am too young, too weak."
The old woman pressed her hand on the girl's lips. "We will not speak
further to-night," she said; "thou canst not see Garthmund for three
days, for so long the feast will last. May the Gods protect thee!" She
rose: the fitful moonlight streamed on her gaunt form; she turned and
slowly ascended to her chamber.
The terrified girl quickly released Jean, who led her from the tower. If
she was broken and trembling he was erect and resolute; no longer the
soft lover, but the prompt man of action. She felt the bracing
influence. "We have three days," he said. "Within that time we must
flee.
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