"A few words will explain that," replied he. "In my early days I was wild, and I am, to tell you the truth, in the power of this man; nay, I will tell you honestly, my life is in his power; he ordered me to come, and I dare not disobey him--and he retains me here." "And Nattee?" "Is quite well, and with me, but not very happy in her present situation; but he is a dangerous, violent, implacable man, and I dare not disobey him. I advise you as a friend, to consent to his wishes." "That requires some deliberation," replied I, "and I am not one of those who are to be driven. My feelings towards Sir Henry, after this treatment, are not the most amicable; besides, how am I to know that Fleta is his relative?" "Well, I can say no more, Japhet. I wish you well out of his hands." "You have the power to help me, if that is the case," said I. "I dare not." "Then you are not the Melchior that you used to be," replied I. "We must submit to fate. I must not stay longer; you will find all that you want in the basket, and more candles, if you do not like being in the dark. I do not think I shall be permitted to come again, till to-morrow." Melchior then went out, locked the door after him, and I was left to my meditations. PART TWO, CHAPTER TWENTY THREE. A FRIEND IN NEED IS A FRIEND IN DEED--THE TABLES ARE TURNED, AND SO IS THE KEY--THE ISSUE IS DEEP TRAGEDY. Was it possible that which Melchior said was true? A little reflection told me that it was all false, and that he was himself Sir Henry de Clare. I was in his power, and what might be the result? He might detain me, but he dare not murder me. Dare not! My heart sank when I considered where I was, and how easy would it be for him to despatch me, if so inclined, without anyone ever being aware of my fate. I lighted a whole candle, that I might not find myself in the dark when I rose, and, exhausted in body and mind, was soon fast asleep. I must have slept many hours, for when I awoke I was in darkness--the candle had burnt out. I groped for the basket, and examined the contents with my hands, and found a tinder-box. I struck a light, and then feeling hungry and weak, refreshed myself with the eatables it contained, which were excellent, as well as the wine. I had replaced the remainder, when the key again turned in the door, and Melchior made his appearance. "How do you feel, Japhet, to-day?" "To-day!" replied I; "day and night are the same to me." "That is your own fault," replied he. "Have you considered what I proposed to you yesterday?" "Yes," replied I; "and I will agree to this. Let Sir Henry give me my liberty, come over to England, prove his relationship to Fleta, and I will give her up. What can he ask for more?" "He will hardly consent to that," replied Melchior; "for, once in England, you will take a warrant out against him." "No; on my honour I will not, Melchior." "He will not trust to that." "Then he must judge of others by himself," replied I.