s plain now she had made her escape in this manner,
and that she was gone.

Too true! Overcome by terror--her mind distracted by fears of
Linton--without one to succor or protect her, she had yielded to the
impulse of her dread, and leaped from the window! That small rag of
fluttering gauze was all that remained of Maritana.

Rica was to hear these sad tidings as he was led away by the commissary,
but he listened to them like one whose mind was stunned by calamity. A
few low murmuring words alone escaped him, and they indicated that he
felt everything which was happening as a judgment upon him for his own
crimes.

Even in his examination before the judge, these half-uttered
self-accusings broke forth, and he seemed utterly indifferent as to what
fate awaited him. By Cashel's intervention, and the deposit of a large
sum as bail for Rica's future appearance, his liberation was effected,
and he was led away from the spot unconscious of all around him.

As Cashel assisted the weak and tottering man through the crowded
passages of the court, he felt his arm gently touched by a hand, at the
same instant that his name was uttered. He turned hastily, and saw
at his side a woman, who, youthful and still handsome, bore in her
appearance the signs of deep poverty and still deeper sorrow. Her dress
had once been rich, but now, from time and neglect, was disfigured and
shabby; her veil, partly drawn across her face, was torn and ragged,
and her very shoes were in tatters. A more sad-looking object it were
difficult to conceive, and in the hurried glance Roland bestowed upon
her, at a moment when all his thoughts were intent upon other cares,
he believed she was one entreating charity. Hastily drawing forth his
purse, he offered her some money, but she drew proudly up, saying, "This
is insult, sir, and I have not deserved it."

Cashel started with amazement, and drawing closer, stared eagerly at
her.

"Great Heaven!" cried he, "is this possible? Is this--"

"Hush!" cried she. "Let me not hear my name--or what was once my
name--spoken aloud. I see now--you did not know me, nor would I have
brought myself to the shame of being recognized but for _his_ sake.
_He_ is now before the tribunal, and will be sent to prison for want of
bail."

Cashel motioned her not to leave the spot; and having safely placed Rica
in his carriage, returned to the court.

By the guarantee of his name, and the offer of any moneyed security
which mig