His fellow adventurer seemed lost in
thought.
"They come," said Nicaeus, starting; "methinks I see one on the brow of
the hill. Away! fly! Let us at least die fighting. Dear, dear Iduna,
would that my life could ransom thine! O God! this is indeed agony."
"Escape is impossible," said Iduna, in a tone of calmness which
astonished them. "They must overtake us. Alas! brave friends, I have
brought ye to this! Pardon me, pardon me! I am ashamed of my selfish
grief. Ascribe it to other causes than a narrow spirit and a weak
mind. One course alone is left to us. We must not be taken prisoners.
Ye are warriors, and can die as such. I am only a woman, but I am the
daughter of Hunniades. Nicaeus, you are my father's friend; I beseech
you sheathe your dagger in my breast."
The prince in silent agony pressed his hands to his sight. His limbs
quivered with terrible emotion. Suddenly he advanced and threw himself
at the feet of his hitherto silent comrade. "Oh! Iskander!" exclaimed
Nicaeus, "great and glorious friend! my head and heart are both too weak
for these awful trials; save her, save her!"
"Iskander! exclaimed the thunderstruck Iduna.
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