eration, the _auto-da-fe_, which
had not been celebrated for upwards of three years, was to take place,
and there was not a sufficient number of those who were to undergo the
last punishment to render the ceremony imposing. A few more were
required for the stake, or you would not have escaped from those
dungeons so soon. As it was, a month of anxiety and suspense, almost
insupportable, had to be passed away before Amine was again summoned to
the Hall of Justice.

Amine, at the time we have specified, was again introduced to the Hall
of Justice, and was again asked if she would confess. Irritated at her
long confinement and the injustice of the proceedings, she replied, "I
have told you once for all, that I have nothing to confess; do with me
as you will, but be quick."

"Will torture oblige you to confess?"

"Try me," replied Amine, firmly, "try me, cruel men, and if you gain but
one word from me, then call me craven. I am but a woman, but I dare
you--I defy you."

It was seldom that such expressions fell upon the ears of her judges,
and still more seldom that a countenance was lighted up with such
determination. But the torture was never applied until after the
accusation had been made and answered.

"We shall see," said the Grand Inquisitor; "take her away."

Amine was led back to her cell. In the mean time, Father Mathias had
had several conferences with the Inquisitor. Although in his wrath he
had accused Amine, and had procured the necessary witnesses against her,
he now felt uneasy and perplexed. His long residence with her--her
invariable kindness till the time of his dismissal--his knowledge that
she had never embraced the faith--her boldness and courage--nay, her
beauty and youth--all worked strongly in her favour. His only object
now was to persuade her to confess that she was wrong, induce her to
embrace the faiths, and save her. With this view he had obtained
permission from the Holy Office to enter her dungeon and reason with
her,--a special favour which, for many reasons, they could not well
refuse him. It was on the third day after her second examination, that
the bolts were removed at an unusual hour, and Father Mathias entered
the cell, which was again barred, and he was left alone with Amine. "My
child! my child!" exclaimed Father Mathias, with sorrow in his
countenance.

"Nay, father, this is mockery. It is you who brought me here--leave
me."

"I brought you here, 'tis true; bu