now hastened from the cottage, closing the window through which she
had entered, and turned her steps towards the Mountain; and approaching
the brink of the precipice, she took the apparel that she had worn from
the village in making her escape, and which she had also taken with her
on her departure from the cottage, and casting it into the waters
beneath the Mountain, hastened from the spot.

With deep thoughtfulness, and great presence of mind, the noble girl
thought that her enemies would search the Mountain in their pursuit,
and on seeing a part of her clothing floating in the waters below the
precipice, would suppose her to be drowned, and she would then be
enabled to escape with safety.

Having thus far accomplished her purpose, she descended the Mountain,
and as the morning was fast approaching, she feared to enter the public
streets, and taking an unfrequented path which led through the forest,
she was soon far distant from her native village.

Here we will leave the lovely Fostina, who had so far bravely effected
her escape, and return to her uncle's residence in the village, where
slept her treacherous enemies, thinking their victim was now safe
within the hall of security.

CHAPTER VI.

_Rineldo's Surprise--Mr. Aubrey and his Son go in Pursuit of
Fostina--Visit to the Mountain and Cottage--Horrible Discovery--End
of their Search._

On the following morning, the family rose at an early hour, and hastily
set about making preparations for the marriage of the two cousins,
which was to take place on that day. Rineldo arrayed himself in costly
apparel, and ascended to the room of his intended bride. On reaching
the door, what was his surprise to find it open, and the key remaining
in the lock! He now recollected that he had forgotten to take it on the
evening before, and rushing into the apartment, and finding his cousin
was not there, he hastened below and informed his parents, who
immediately searched the house, but in vain. The family then readily
concluded that Fostina had returned home. Accordingly, Mr. Aubrey,
accompanied by his son directed his way to the cottage, but when they
arrived no traces could be seen of the lost one. They then hastened to
the Mountain, closely examining every place for concealment, but
Fostina could not be found. Rineldo then walked to the side of the
Mountain, and glancing into the waters below, beheld a shawl belonging
to his cousin, floating upon the surface. He in