val of this lovely young woman appeared to
Polidori a godsend. Rodolph's mind was already inflamed with amorous
imaginings; Sarah might become, or be made, the delicious reality which
should substantiate so many glorious dreams. It was not to be doubted
but that she would secure an immense influence over a heart submitted to
the witching spell of a first love. The doctor instantly laid his plan
to direct and secure this influence, and to make it serve also as the
means of destroying Murphy's power and reputation. Like a skilful
intriguer, he soon informed the aspiring pair that they must come to an
understanding with him, as he alone was responsible to the Grand Duke
for the private life of the young prince.

Sarah and her brother understood him in a moment, although they had not
told the doctor a syllable of their secret designs. On the return of
Rodolph and Murphy, all three, combined by one common intent, tacitly
leagued against the squire, their most redoubtable enemy.

* * * * *

What was to happen did happen. Rodolph saw Sarah daily after his return,
and became desperately enamoured. She soon told him that she shared his
love, although she foresaw that this love would create great trouble. He
could never be happy; the distance that separated them was too wide! She
then recommended to Rodolph the most profound discretion, for fear of
arousing the Grand Duke's suspicions, as he would be inexorable, and
deprive them of their only happiness,--that of seeing each other every
day. The young prince promised to be cautious, and conceal his love. The
Scotch maiden was too ambitious, too self-possessed, to compromise and
betray herself in the eyes of the court; and Rodolph, perceiving the
necessity of dissimulation, imitated Sarah's prudence. The lovers'
secret was carefully preserved for some time; nor was it until the
brother and sister saw the unbridled passion of their dupe reach its
utmost excess, and that his infatuation, which he could hardly restrain,
threatened to burst forth afresh, and destroy all, that they resolved on
their final _coup_. The doctor's character authorising the confidence,
besides the morality which invested it, Seyton opened to him on the
necessity of a marriage between Rodolph and Sarah; otherwise, he added,
with perfect sincerity, he and his sister would instantly leave
Gerolstein. Sarah participated in the prince's affection, but,
preferring death to dishonour