"By break of day," continued Frederic, "when we had committed the
holy relics to earth, we dug according to direction. But what was
our astonishment when about the depth of six feet we discovered an
enormous sabre--the very weapon yonder in the court. On the blade,
which was then partly out of the scabbard, though since closed by
our efforts in removing it, were written the following lines--no;
excuse me, Madam," added the Marquis, turning to Hippolita; "if I
forbear to repeat them: I respect your sex and rank, and would not
be guilty of offending your ear with sounds injurious to aught that
is dear to you."

He paused. Hippolita trembled. She did not doubt but Frederic was
destined by heaven to accomplish the fate that seemed to threaten
her house. Looking with anxious fondness at Matilda, a silent tear
stole down her cheek: but recollecting herself, she said -

"Proceed, my Lord; heaven does nothing in vain; mortals must
receive its divine behests with lowliness and submission. It is
our part to deprecate its wrath, or bow to its decrees. Repeat the
sentence, my Lord; we listen resigned."

Frederic was grieved that he had proceeded so far. The dignity and
patient firmness of Hippolita penetrated him with respect, and the
tender silent affection with which the Princess and her daughter
regarded each other, melted him almost to tears. Yet apprehensive
that his forbearance to obey would be more alarming, he repeated in
a faltering and low voice the following lines:


"Where'er a casque that suits this sword is found,