The Romance of the Forest, interspersed with some pieces of poetry.Radcliffe, Ann Ward
General
The Romance of the Forest, interspersed with some pieces of poetry.
Radcliffe, Ann Ward
Gothic fiction
Excellent Adeline! cried Theodore, that heart must be adamant that would
injure you. How shall I hint what I fear is too true, and how forbear to
warn you of your danger without--He was interrupted by a step among the
trees, and presently after saw La Motte cross into the path they were
in. Adeline felt confused at being thus seen with the chevalier, and was
hastening to join La Motte; but Theodore detained her, and entreated a
moment's attention. There is now no time to explain myself, said he; yet
what I would say is of the utmost consequence to _yourself_.
Promise, therefore, to meet me in some part of the forest at about this
time to-morrow evening; you will then, I hope, be convinced that my
conduct is directed neither by common circumstances nor common regard.
Adeline shuddered at the idea of making an appointment; she hesitated,
and at length entreated Theodore not to delay till to-morrow an
explanation which appeared to be so important, but to follow La Motte
and inform him of his danger immediately. It is not with La Motte I
would speak, replied Theodore; I know of no danger that threatens
him--but he approaches, be quick, lovely Adeline, and promise to meet
me.
I do promise, said Adeline, with a faltering voice; I will come to the
spot where you found me this evening, an hour earlier to-morrow. Saying
this, she withdrew her trembling hand, which Theodore had pressed to his
lips in token of acknowledgement, and he immediately disappeared.
La Motte now approached Adeline, who, fearing that he had seen Theodore,
was in some confusion. Whither is Louis gone so fast? said La Motte. She
rejoiced to find his mistake, and suffered him to remain in it. They
walked pensively towards the abbey, where Adeline, too much occupied by
her own thoughts to bear company, retired to her chamber. She ruminated
upon the words of Theodore; and the more she considered them, the more
she was perplexed. Sometimes she blamed herself for having made an
appointment, doubting whether he had not solicited it for the purpose of
pleading a passion; and now delicacy checked this thought, and made her
vexed that she had presumed upon having inspired one. She recollected
the serious earnestness of his voice and manner when he entreated her to
meet him; and as they convinced her of the importance of the subject,
she shuddered at a danger which she could not comprehend, looking
forward to the morrow with anxious impatience.
Public-domain text, read in full here on John Shaqi.
Reviews
Reviews
No reviews yet
Be the first to share your thoughts on this work.
Elsewhere in the archive
Join the Discussion
Join the discussion
Sign in to leave a comment or review.
Sign InorCreate an account