And yet, sweetest Violetta, to gain thy
favor this risk is nothing; nor will a far greater hazard turn me from
my purpose."
"These inexperienced and confiding spirits have taken advantage of my
absence to communicate more freely than was discreet," said the
Carmelite, in the manner of one who foresaw the answer.
"Father, nature is too strong for the weak preventives of prudence."
The brow of the monk became clouded. His companions watched the workings
of his mind, as they appeared in a countenance that in common was so
benevolent, though always sad. For a few moments none broke the silence.
The Carmelite at length demanded, raising his troubled look to the
countenance of Don Camillo,--
"Hast thou duly reflected on the consequences of this rashness, son?
What dost thou purpose in thus braving the anger of the Republic, and in
setting at defiance her arts, her secret means of intelligence, and her
terrors?"
"Father, I have reflected as all of my years reflect, when in heart and
soul they love. I have brought myself to feel that any misery would be
happiness compared to the loss of Violetta, and that no risk can exceed
the reward of gaining her favor. Thus much for the first of thy
questions; for the last I can only say that I am too much accustomed to
the wiles of the Senate to be a novice in the means of counteracting
them."
"There is but one language for youth, when seduced by that pleasing
delusion which paints the future with hues of gold.
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