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Chapter 23 It was eight o’clock when we landed ; we walked for a short time on the shore , enjoying the transitory light , and then retired to the inn and contemplated the lovely scene of waters , woods , and mountains , obscured in darkness , yet still displaying their black outlines . The wind , which had fallen in the south , now rose with great violence in the west . The moon had reached her summit in the heavens and was beginning to descend ; the clouds swept across it swifter than the flight of the vulture and dimmed her rays , while the lake reflected the scene of the busy heavens , rendered still busier by the restless waves that were beginning to rise . Suddenly a heavy storm of rain descended . I had been calm during the day , but so soon as night obscured the shapes of objects , a thousand fears arose in my mind . I was anxious and watchful , while my right hand grasped a pistol which was hidden in my bosom ; every sound terrified me , but I resolved that I would sell my life dearly and not shrink from the conflict until my own life or that of my adversary was extinguished . Elizabeth observed my agitation for some time in timid and fearful silence , but there was something in my glance which communicated terror to her , and trembling , she asked , “ What is it that agitates you , my dear Victor ? What is it you fear ? ” “ Oh ! Peace , peace , my love , ” replied I ; “ this night , and all will be safe ; but this night is dreadful , very dreadful . ” I passed an hour in this state of mind , when suddenly I reflected how fearful the combat which I momentarily expected would be to my wife , and I earnestly entreated her to retire , resolving not to join her until I had obtained some knowledge as to the situation of my enemy . She left me , and I continued some time walking up and down the passages of the house and inspecting every corner that might afford a retreat to my adversary . But I discovered no trace of him and was beginning to conjecture that some fortunate chance had intervened to prevent the execution of his menaces when suddenly I heard a shrill and dreadful scream . It came from the room into which Elizabeth had retired . As I heard it , the whole truth rushed into my mind , my arms dropped , the motion of every muscle and fibre was suspended ; I could feel the blood trickling in my veins and tingling in the extremities of my limbs . This state lasted but for an instant ; the scream was repeated , and I rushed into the room . Great God ! Why did I not then expire ! Why am I here to relate the destruction of the best hope and the purest creature on earth ? She was there , lifeless and inanimate , thrown across the bed , her head hanging down and her pale and distorted features half covered by her hair . Everywhere I turn I see the same figure — her bloodless arms and relaxed form flung by the murderer on its bridal bier . Could I behold this and live ? Alas ! Life is obstinate and clings closest where it is most hated . For a moment only did I lose recollection ; I fell senseless on the ground .
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