ed in our former
views; but then we were blinded, at least I was; for you know love has
always been blind. I must crave your pardon, as I would the forgiveness of
Eveline, were she present, for having entertained so unjust a thought
toward her for a single moment. Be assured, if she cannot be won by
gentleness and love, I shall never consent to make her my wife, though she
is dearer to me than life itself."

"Very well; I still feel that all will come out right, and that a peaceful
calm of sunshine will succeed the season of storm and clouds; but we must
not hurry matters; time will do more for us than we can for ourselves,
whereas haste might defeat all our hopes. At present, I do not think it
would be advisable for you to urge your suit to her; her mind is not yet
prepared to receive you with that degree of favor desirable."

"I shall act in the matter as your better judgment and clearer perception
shall dictate, and hope for the best."

And thus the interview ended. How strange that Mr. Mandeville should be so
easily deceived in regard to Duffel! and how debasingly hypocritical was
the dissembling villain! Will he never be overtaken by his crimes?

CHAPTER VIII.

THE "DARK PASSAGE"--THE THEFT.

On the appointed night, the two ruffians, Bill and Dick, repaired to the
"dark passage," according to arrangement, and with daggers and pistols (the
latter only to be used in case of necessity, as the report of firearms
might lead to detection,) awaited the arrival of their victim. About nine
o'clock, the sound of horses' feet, approaching at a rapid gait, gave them
to understand the hour of their deadly work was at hand. Taking their
stand, one on either side of the road, they silently awaited the horseman's
coming.

It was a dismal place, a low, wet valley, densely shaded and overgrown by
trees, whose thick foliage scarcely admitted a single sunbeam to penetrate
to the earth beneath. This gloomy passage was about half a mile in extent,
and at its dark center the villains had posted themselves. Their plans were
all fully matured, even down to the minute details. They were both to
spring out and seize the horse by the bridle; then, while Bill held the
animal, Dick was to strike the fatal blow to the heart of the rider. Not a
word was to be spoken. As the man entered the passage, his pace was
slackened, and he kept his eye about him, as if in fear of an attack. When
within about a hundred yards of the concealed a