Pardon the fright I 've caused you , and let me take you to your friends . '' The true English accent of the words , and the hearty tone of sincerity in the apology , reassured Amy at once , and , rising , she said , with a faint smile and a petulant tone , -- `` I was very silly , but my guide ran away , my candle went out , I lost the path , and can speak no German ; so I was afraid to answer you at first ; and then I lost my wits altogether , for it 's rather startling to be clutched in the dark , sir . '' `` Indeed it is . I was very thoughtless , but now let me atone for it . Where is your uncle , Miss Erskine ? '' asked the stranger , with respectful earnestness . `` You know my name ? '' cried Amy in her impulsive way . `` I have that happiness , '' was the answer , with a smile . `` But I do n't know you , sir ; '' and she peered at him , trying to see his face in the darkness , for the copse was thick , and twilight had come on rapidly . `` Not yet ; I live in hope . Shall we go ? Your uncle will be uneasy . '' `` Where are we ? '' asked Amy , glad to move on , for the interview was becoming too personal even for her , and the stranger 's manner fluttered her , though she enjoyed the romance of the adventure immensely . `` We are in the park which surrounds the castle . You were near the entrance to it from the vaults when you fainted . '' `` I wish I had kept on a little longer , and not disgraced myself by such a panic . '' `` Nay , that is a cruel wish , for then I should have lost the happiness of helping you . '' They had been walking side by side , but were forced to pause on reaching a broken flight of steps , for Amy could not see the way before her .
`` Let me lead you ; it is steep and dark , but better than going a long way round through the dew , '' he XXXXX , offering his hand .
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