"
"Forbid it, Father Anselmo. Dearest Florinda, we will share his
punishment!" exclaimed the terrified Violetta, losing all self-command
in the fear of such a moment. "He has not been guilty of this
indiscretion without participation of mine; he has not presumed beyond
his encouragement."
The monk and Donna Florinda regarded each other in mute amazement, and
haply there was some admixture of feeling in the look that denoted the
uselessness of caution when the passions were intent to elude the
vigilance of those who were merely prompted by prudence. The former
simply motioned for silence, while he turned to the domestic.
"Of what character are these ministers of the state?" he demanded.
"Father, they are its known officers, and wear the badges of their
condition."
"And their request?"
"Is to be admitted to the presence of the Donna Violetta."
"There is still hope!" rejoined the monk, breathing more freely. Moving
across the room, he opened a door which communicated with the private
oratory of the palace. "Retire within this sacred chapel, Don Camillo,
while we await the explanation of so extraordinary a visit."
As the time pressed, the suggestion was obeyed on the instant. The lover
entered the oratory, and when the door was closed upon his person, the
domestic, one known to be worthy of all confidence, was directed to
usher in those who waited without.
But a single individual appeared.
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