When he finds
this fairer love he is happy, but a spirit of retaliation may remain. I
think this is my case. To be the wife of a notorious highwayman would
not appeal to many women; most women would prefer to be Lady Rosmore,
whatever the drawbacks to such a position might be. Mistress Lanison
will go her own way, and I should be more than human if I did not hope
that she may live to regret it. There is no trickery, and no condition
except that you leave Dorchester together. Once safely in his hands, I
can trust Gilbert Crosby not to let you escape him."
"I ought to thank you, Lord Rosmore, but--"
"But you may live to curse me for my help. It is possible, probable
even. You have three days to think it over. Escape will not be possible
until then."
"There is some scheme against me," said Barbara passionately. "You and
my guardian have--"
"I said I had more than words to prove my sincerity," said Rosmore,
going to the door. He went out. "I will give you an hour," Barbara heard
him say, and then another closely-cloaked figure entered and the door
was shut and locked.
"Gilbert!" she cried, and the next moment she was sobbing in his arms.
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