Mutually endeared by these mutual sacrifices, their prison still enclosed two hearts that felt not a diminution of love; and even their bitterest hours were sweetened by the fond glance of approval, the tender smile of gratitude. Signor Valdorno witnessed this dignified and true attachment with feelings that did him honour; and though strict in the performance of his duty, his manners were full of respectful pity, and his communications on the events without, as explanatory as he dared hazard. It was from him that Sebastian at length drew an account of the various exertions which were still making by his friends; and at this information his hopes revived. The fitful day of his fate might yet change! so many vicissitudes had already marked its progress, that he deemed it impious to despair; and the more so, while allowed to retain those precious objects of his soul, without whom, no destiny could bestow happiness. In the midst of reviving hope, father Sampayo returned from Rome with the Pope’s order to the Senate of Venice for an immediate and private interview with their prisoner. A bright sunbeam shone through the window of Sebastian’s chamber, on the face of old Sampayo, as he entered where Sebastian and Kara Aziek sat expecting him; a brighter beam, for it emanated from a comforted heart, was there also. Sebastian run forward to welcome him; Sampayo whispered a benediction, and dropt a joyful tear over the hand of Kara Aziek, as he feebly grasped it within his. “This is a happy or a sad hour to me, as my Liege shall chuse to make it!” said Sampayo, slowly seating his exhausted frame. “I come back charged with an important mission: the fate of this dear lady, your own fate, honored Sire! the lives and comforts of millions are now in your hands, a single word will destroy or save all.” Kara Aziek looked on him with an anxiety which suspended her breath and her pulsation: Sebastian already guessed the mission of Sampayo. “Say on!” he cried, with a steady voice, “I am prepared to hear you with attention and singleness of heart.--It is of God and our conscience, that we are about to speak.” There was something so impressive in the tone of his last words, and so much of truth and dignity on his brow, that father Sampayo’s looks took an impression of still deeper interest, and dropping on his knees, the old man raised his hoary head and withered hands towards him, while earnestly repeating.