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estates, but he disclaims all boon save that of pardon, and declares his intention of accompanying a band of Puritans into exile.
"'Let my father's house pass from me,' he said, 'even as I am about to pass away from my father's land. When yonder dearest maiden stood with me before the altar, she knew that she wedded one whose futurelot was that of an exile and a wanderer. The plan which I formed thoughtfully, I adhered to steadily. I am still bound to my brave companions; far across the ocean we will seek an altar and a home. For the faith which we profess we are ready to encounter every danger; we go in the name of God, and we believe He will guide us in safety through the wilderness. To night we sail."
"'He is mad!' said Lord Avonleigh; 'at all events you, Francesca, will not go with him?'
"She answered by placing her hand in Evelyn's, and standing in silence at his side."
—Another beautiful scene for a painting, and one which would form an exquisite companion to the scene of Francesca's marriage.
For the one there would be the shadowy churchyard, the ancient tower rising in the moonlight; a few dimly-seen figures in the dark dress of the Puritans hastily retreating from the half-closed grave of Major Johnston. Evelyn and Francesca, who have just come from the bridal altar to kneel beside the grave of Guido, suddenly disturbed by the red glare of torches blending with the silvery moonbeams; and surrounded by steel-clad soldiers, headed by the gaily-dressed Buckingham and the infuriated Lord Avonleigh; these accessories should all lend their picturesque effect to the interest of the moment when Francesca clings to the fettered arm of Evelyn, and,
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