The Mysteries of the Court of London — page 162: what you’re looking at

Machine-transcribed from the original scan — historical spelling and the odd misread are preserved.

EDGAR AND CHRISTIAN 139 to penetrate through the obscurity, discern any human form moving about. The ladder was accordingly planted against the window of Laura’s chamber, and Edgar, rapidly ascending it, tapped gently at the glass. The few moments ' which followed ere the summons was answered were full of acutest suspense for the lieutenant, inasmuch as he could not see into the room, the heavy draperies being drawn com- pletely over the casement, and it might not be Laura who was there, or if it were, it was by no means certain that she was alone. Her sister or a maid servant might happen to be with her, although her note to her lover had given rise to a hope in altogether a contrary sense. The suspense of Edgar Beverley was not, however, of long duration; the draperies parted in the centre, and the well-beloved Laura appeared to his view. Oh, with what ecstasy beat his heart, what joy thrilled through his form! The light of the wax candles inside the chamber beamed upon his countenance, and a kindred animation of wild delight irradiated the young maiden’s features as she recognized him who was dearer to her than any being in the world beside. Nevertheless, caution was not lost sight of, the window was opened gently, and then Laura’s fair hand was pressed to Edgar’s lips. ‘“Come, dearest, come,”’ hé said in a low but fervid whis- per; “‘ the chaise is waiting, there must not be an instant’s delay.” “Dearest Edgar! ’’ murmured the damsel, her joy being so excessive that her emotions now found vent in tears. “You know not how much I have suffered — But never, never, Edgar,’’ she added, more firmly, and likewise with a sudden access of solemnity, ‘never, never will I forget all this goodness on your part.” She pressed his hand, and flew to put on her bonnet and shawl, but her heart fluttered and her hand trembled so that she felt as if she had incurred the danger of being as much overpowered by joy as but a short time back she stood the chance of being overwhelmed with affliction. At length, however, after the lapse of some moments, — which seemed ages to the impatient lover, — she was ready attired, and she rejoined him at the window. Still so timid and nervous was she, however, that he perceived at a glance she would not be able to descend the ladder without the most EOMIGIOOKS (CO)