As the hoary sinner withdrew his hand, suddenly the muscles of his face
relaxed; a ray of hope had irradiated his spirit--a gleam of delight
passed over his pale features. He grew calm, and with a firm step he
strode across the apartment. He approached the cabinet.
"Thou shalt not escape me now!"--As he said this, he threw open the
doors. Hildebrand had often searched this depository, but the place of
concealment pointed out by the stranger had hitherto escaped his notice.
He soon detected the stratagem--the lid flew back; but the papers of
which he was in search were gone!
The spirit of mischief was again foiled, but his evil genius did not
forsake him. He sat down, and, for purposes of the blackest malignity,
forged a series of evidences--a development of plans and proceedings
that would at once have branded Sir Henry as a coward and a traitor.
These letters he sealed up, and calling for the messenger, committed the
packet into his hands.
"You have Sir Henry's orders to lay these before the king?" said
Hildebrand.
"I have," replied the envoy.
"Then hasten to court, and so good speed. Stay--when you meet Sir Henry
Fairfax, offer him an old man's sympathy and condolence.
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