For a third time is the tableau reconstructed--spectators and actors in
the dread drama taking their places as before.
The lazo is once more passed over the limb; the same two scoundrels
taking hold of its loose end--this time drawing it towards them till it
becomes taut.
For the third time arises the reflection:
"Soon must the soul of Maurice Gerald go back to its God!"
Now nearer than ever does the unfortunate man seem to his end. Even
love has proved powerless to save him! Wha power on earth can be
appealed to after this? None likely to avail.
But there appears no chance of succour--no time for it. There is no
mercy in the stern looks of the Regulators--only impatience. The
hangmen, too, appear in a hurry--as if they were in dread of another
interruption. They manipulate the rope with the ability of experienced
executioners. The physiognomy of either would give colour to the
assumption, that they had been accustomed to the calling.