The time was so near at hand now, I felt, when I could claim my own from
Bainrothe, and cast off all shackles of guardianship and minority, that
I no longer feared the consequences of this revelation. In September we
should meet on new ground. I, no more a minor, would be beyond the reach
of his subtle mastery; and, until then--the time assigned for the
expiration of his year of trust--he would remain in Europe, with the
wide sea between us, and little probability of information through the
medium of public rumor.
I would be secret, cautious, abide in the shadow, until the hour arrived
to emerge therefrom, and, with the aid of God and Wardour Wentworth,
defeat his schemes and vindicate the truth!
Alas for human foresight! Alas for Fate!
FOOTNOTES:
[Footnote 1: Pronounced popularly "_Less der-neer_."]
_SEA AND SHORE_
"No fears hath she! Her giant form
Majestically calm would go
O'er wrathful surge, through blackening storm,
'Mid the deep darkness, white as snow!
So stately her bearing, so proud her array,
The main she will traverse forever and aye!
Many ports shall exult in the gleam of her mast--
Hush! hush! thou vain dreamer, this hour is her last!"
WILSON, "_Isle of Palms_."
* * * * *
"Then hold her
Strictly confined in sombre banishment,
And doubt not but she will ere long, full gladly,
Her freedom purchase at the price you name.
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