confounds me; though it seems inconsistent with the friendship
between us; I cannot forget the disinterested warmth with which she
always opposed my taking the veil. She wished to see me married,
though my dower would have been a loss to her and my brother's
children. For her sake I will believe well of this young peasant."

"Then you do think there is some liking between them," said Bianca.
While she was speaking, a servant came hastily into the chamber and
told the Princess that the Lady Isabella was found.

"Where?" said Matilda.

"She has taken sanctuary in St. Nicholas's church," replied the
servant; "Father Jerome has brought the news himself; he is below
with his Highness."

"Where is my mother?" said Matilda.

"She is in her own chamber, Madam, and has asked for you."

Manfred had risen at the first dawn of light, and gone to
Hippolita's apartment, to inquire if she knew aught of Isabella.
While he was questioning her, word was brought that Jerome demanded
to speak with him. Manfred, little suspecting the cause of the
Friar's arrival, and knowing he was employed by Hippolita in her
charities, ordered him to be admitted, intending to leave them
together, while he pursued his search after Isabella.

"Is your business with me or the Princess?" said Manfred.