She went at last, and then it was Dorothy's turn. The way was once
more open for the brave-hearted Manners to meet his betrothed again.

"Stop!" exclaimed Nicholas, as Manners eagerly kissed the maiden's
blushing cheek. "Let Mistress Dorothy perform her duty first."

There was no gainsaying this. The good father would not be argued
with, and so Dorothy bended her knee, and in humble penitence
confessed her misdeeds and prayed forgiveness for her sins.

The confession, though well meant, was constrained and short. The
maiden was absent-minded, and though she would have entered into it
with heart and soul, she found herself unable to bend her will, and
even while confessing, her thoughts were fixed on her lover, whom
she knew was impatiently waiting to embrace her as soon as she had
finished her devotions.

"And now, my own peerless Doll," said Manners, as she rose and came to
him, "at last I may talk with thee once more."

"Yes, John," replied the maiden, "at last! We have waited long for
this."

"Nicholas, you will listen and warn us if anyone approaches," said
Manners.

"I pray thee forget not that the time goes on apace," replied the
confessor. "I will guard the door for thee."

The lovers were alone; they were free to enjoy each other's