The Woodman; A Romance of the Times of Richard III. (Paperback)

This historic book may have numerous typos and missing text. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. Not indexed. Not illustrated. 1849. Excerpt: ... CHAPTER II. The opening of the door of the hall startled Iola from her slumber; and when she found where her head had been resting, a bright warm blush spread over her fair face. Though the lamp was by this time glimmering low, the form and face of the woodman were instantly recognized by all the party in the hall; and an expression of gladness came over all their faces. He was instantly assailed by many questions which he could not answer; but he told all he knew; and one piece of information was at all events, satisfactory to both Chartley and Iola, namely, that the bishop had escaped. "There," he continued, setting down the food and wine which he carried; "there is something to refresh you, young people, though good sooth lady, I thought you were by this time safe within the walls of the abbey, and would rather it had been so." "And so would I," answered Iola, though perhaps, her heart was at that moment a little doubtful; "but it could not be, Boyd, for the door in the cell was closed when I went back--I fancy the bishop had let it slip from his hand--and I could not return to the abbey without passing through the midst of the armed men. Then as I was hurrying towards your cottage for shelter and protection, I met with this noble Lord, who told me the soldiers were upon the road" "And proved a pleasanter "protector than an old woodman, I doubt not," replied Boyd, with a cynical smile. Iola's face reddened again; but she replied frankly; "a noble, a kind, and a generous one certainly, to whom I shall ever feel indebted." "One does not choose in a thunderstorm, my good friend," said Chartley, in his usual gay tone, "whether one will take refuge in a palace or a hermitage. The nearest place at hand, is the best; and this fair lady I doubt not, cared not ...