"Not so, Halbert--that evasion were unworthy of one whose word has
hitherto been truth. You meditate not the destruction of the deer--your
hand and your heart are aimed at other game--you seek to do battle with
this stranger."
"And wherefore should I quarrel with our guest?" answered Halbert,
blushing deeply.
"There are, indeed, many reasons why you should not," replied the
maiden, "nor is there one of avail wherefore you should--yet
nevertheless, such a quarrel you are now searching after."
"Why should you suppose so, Mary?" said Halbert, endeavouring to hide
his conscious purpose--"he is my mother's guest--he is protected by
the Abbot and the community, who are our masters--he is of high degree
also,--and wherefore should you think that I can, or dare, resent a
hasty word, which he has perchance thrown out against me more from the
wantonness of his wit, than the purpose of his heart?"
"Alas!" answered the maiden, "the very asking that question puts your
resolution beyond a doubt. Since your childhood you were ever daring,
seeking danger rather than avoiding it--delighting in whatever had the
air of adventure and of courage: and it is not from fear that you will
now blench from your purpose--Oh, let it then be from pity!--from
pity, Halbert, to your aged mother, whom your death or victory will
alike deprive of the comfort and stay of her age."
"She has my brother Edward," said Halbert, turning suddenly from her.
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