te something to her and drop
it down. He might pencil something on a leaf of his pocket-book. But,
after all, what would be the good of that? Would she ever see it?
Might it not be picked up by one of the waiting-women in the morning?
Most likely it would be, in which case it would be carried to the
chief, "His Majesty," and all would be revealed. He then would be
conveyed to another part of the castle, and then--good-bye to the
hidden package and to Katie. This thought decided him. He continued
his descent.

Slowly, cautiously, and stealthily Harry began to venture down,
looking behind him at every movement, and at every movement waiting
and listening. No sound arose, however, except the low breathing,
which was as regular as before. At length he stood upon the stone
floor of the fireplace.

Here he stood and looked into the room. By this time his eyes were so
accustomed to the moonlight that he could see objects with wonderful
distinctness. He could see three beds, upon which were reclining
three figures, all apparently buried in sleep. Like himself, all
these had been compelled to lie down in their clothes, with only such
additional covering as might be afforded by their own shawls and
wraps.

Harry stole forward, his heart beating painfully. Upon the rude couch
nearest him lay a figure that seemed familiar. The moonbeams shone
full upon her. A shawl with a large stripe was drawn over her. It was
Katie's shawl.

Harry came nearer.

He could see her! It was--yes, it was Katie!

There was no mistake about it. It was Katie, and she was sound
asleep. He looked at her as she slept--her head thrown back, and one
arm upraised, so that the little hand seemed suspended in the air.
For a few moments he stood, then he sank upon his knees, and gazed in
silent rapture on that sweet and beautiful face. Her breathing was
soft and low--scarce audible. He bent his head down to listen. Katie
stirred. She drew a long breath.

"H-s-s-s-s-sh!" whispered Harry.

At this Katie stopped breathing for a moment, and then she whispered,
very softly,

"Who are you?"

"Harry," said the other. "Don't speak a word."

Saying this, he reached out his hand and took hers. This was intended
merely to soothe her and to reassure her, for fear that she might be
startled.

"I knew you would come to me," said Katie, in a rapid and joyous
whisper; "and here you are--you dear, good boy!"

At this Harry's heart beat with a rapture that was p