Volume I Part 11 (1/2)

_Lilia_.

Ah, my poor Julian! How-- I am so sorry!--Oh, I _do_ remember!

I saw it all quite plain! It was no dream!

I saw you fighting!--Surely you did not kill him?

_Julian_ (_calmly, but drawing himself up_).

I killed him as I would a dog that bit you.

_Lilia_ (_turning pale, and covering her face with her hands_.) Oh, that was dreadful! there is blood on you!

_Julian_.

Shall I go, Lilia?

_Lilia_.

Oh no, no, no, do not.-- I shall be better presently.

_Julian_.

You shrink As from a murderer!

_Lilia_.

Oh no, I love you-- Will never leave you. Pardon me, my Julian; But blood is terrible.

_Julian_ (_drawing her close to him_).

My own sweet Lilia, 'Twas justly shed, for your defense and mine, As it had been a tiger that I killed.

He had no right to live. Be at peace, darling; His blood lies not on me, but on himself; I do not feel its stain upon my conscience.

[_A tap at the door_.]

_Enter_ Nurse.

_Nurse_.

My lord, the steward waits on you below.

[JULIAN _goes_.]

You have been standing till you're faint, my lady!

Lie down a little. There!--I'll fetch you something.

SCENE XVI.--_The Steward's room_. JULIAN. _The Steward_.

_Julian_.

Well, Joseph, that will do. I shall expect To hear from you soon after my arrival.

Is the boat ready?

_Steward_.

Yes, my lord; afloat Where you directed.

_Julian_.

A strange feeling haunts me, As of some danger near. Unlock it, and cast The chain around the post. m.u.f.fle the oars.

_Steward_.

I will, directly.