ought shall set you free!"

It was late, and Rineldo, taking a key from his pocket, unlocked the
door, and bidding his cousin good night, he withdrew from the
apartment.

Fostina was now left alone to meditate upon her forlorn situation; she
thought her doom was sealed forever. Must she be compelled to unite
herself with one whom she could never love? One who had sought by his
treacherous means to destroy her happiness, and who had betrayed the
confidence of her friends in executing his subtle plans.

She knew there was but one alternative; could she escape? If so, she
might free herself from her enemies, who now sought to ruin her
happiness.

She rose, and walked to the windows; they had been secured; two doors
which led from the apartment were also carefully locked. She again went
to the windows, but it was midnight darkness without; she then seated
herself upon the sofa, and calmly awaited her doom. Sleep forsook her
once bright eyes, which now were dimmed with tears, while, with patient
resignation to her fate, she awaited the return of morning. The lamp
shone dimly over the apartment, casting its glimmering rays upon the
rich tapestry that hung from the walls around her. There in youthful
innocence sat the once loved and loving Fostina.

Morning came; it was lovely; the sky was clear, the dewdrop glistened
in the sun, and the sweet music of the birds made the welkin ring; but
still the lonely maiden sat. Sadness and gloom were spread over her
pale countenance, and the expression of deep sorrow rested upon her
features.

The day passed slowly on without any intrusion upon her grief, until
the close of the afternoon, when Rineldo again entered the apartment,
followed by his father, who informed her that the day was fixed for her
marriage with his son, and bade her prepare for the coming event. He
then retired, leaving Rineldo alone with his cousin; he remained until
a late hour, and again taking his leave, hastily left the room.

Fostina was now placed in the most trying situation, her only remaining
hope was the slight possibility of escape. She waited in silence until
the sound of voices had ceased in the rooms below; she then rose, and
went to the windows; they were secured, and all was darkness without,
as the evening before. No light could be seen, and silence reigned
throughout the village. She hastened to the door, and what was her
inexpressible joy, to find that Rineldo in his haste had left the key