oUR ISLAND STORY ' 157

ered to be socially equal with the Family of DeRoberval. Before his departure from France DeRoberval was visited by Bishop

Duchatel, who pleaded for his consent to the union of his niece} with her heart’s one mate.” But he pleaded in vain. In the 1

(6’

next scene Margaret, herself, came as a suppliant; _

‘Servant to DeRoberVal—A lady awaits. Roberval~——Who? -

Servant—- 4 Sieur, I know not;

In sorrow, as I think, but young and graceful And clad 1n mourning garb, '

Roberval-Admit her straight,

(Enter Margaret Roberval veiled. Roberval es-

corts her gallantly to a seat, and stands un-

' covered ) '

. Roberval——— _ Fair lady, for I know you are fair,

Whence comes this honor that you Wait on me?

This cabinet is more the abiding place of logs and

muster-rolls than ladies bower.

Margaret——

Alasl I come a sad petitioner; Robervalw- .

The happier I who have the power to aid. Margaret—— ‘

If not in your power, then not in man s power.

. g A But 1n the hand of God -RobervaI'-—- . ' Lady unknown, Much may lie 111 my power. Not all, but, much. I My. duty to my King, myself-respect, ' Are almost all can lay restraint on'me.

’ You seem in trouble; friends, p‘erchance, have lost-— I

And that .I Cannot remedy. Consider, ' If it be in the compass of my mission, - Your prayer already granted. ~