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"They were now far above the valley, and another moment brought them to their destination a broad ledge of rock on which stood a cottage with its grove of chestnut-trees, and a little patch of carefully cultivated ground. "Magdalen Goneto, the mother of Rudolph, a matron of placid countenance and sweet and gentle dignity of mien had seen their approach and come forth to meet them.

"In the midst of their exertions Magdalen Goneto suddenly appeared among them. "'I have heard, and I come to live or die with you, dear friends, she said, and fell to work with the others. "At length all was completed, and they could only await in dreadful suspense the coming of events. They had continued to importune the commandant, but with no better success than at first.

"They reached the last of these, and dashing through it, were presently in sight of La Tour, when the tolling of the vesper bell of the convent of the Récollets the preconcerted signal for the assassins to sally forth smote upon their ears. "'Too late! too late! cried Rudolph Goneto hoarsely.

"'Ah, Henri, it is because my heart is so light and glad! she returned with a silvery laugh, pausing for an instant that he might overtake her. "'Yes, he said, as he gained her side, 'the good news from my father and Pierre, and Rudolph Goneto that they are well and yet unharmed by French sword or bullet has filled all our hearts with joy.