"No" she replied, '' your messenger merely showed it to me. But why do
you ask? Ah! I understand. The fiendish laughter that just now sounded
in my ears proceeded from--"
"Herne the Hunter," replied Surrey, in a whisper. "But fear nothing. I
will defend you with my life. Ah! accursed chance! I have no weapon."
"None would avail against him," murmured the Fair Geraldine. "Lead
me forth; I shall die if I stay here."
Supporting her in his arms, Surrey complied, but they had scarcely
gained the entrance of the arbour, when a tall figure stood before them.
It was the Duke of Richmond. A gleam of moonlight penetrating through
the leaves, fell upon the group, and rendered them distinctly visible to
each other.
"Soh!" exclaimed the duke, after regarding the pair in silence for a
moment, "I have not been misinformed. You have contrived a meeting
here."
"Richmond," said Surrey sternly, "we once were dear and loving friends,
and we are still honourable foes. I know that I am safe with you. I know
you will breathe no word about this meeting, either to the Fair
Geraldine's prejudice or mine.
"You judge me rightly, my lord," replied the duke, in a tone of equal
sternness.
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