The Piazzetta
was without a human form, except their own. A low, murmuring sound arose
from the court palace, which resembled the hum of a disturbed hive; but
nothing was distinct or intelligible.
"There is violence meditated," again whispered the governess; "would to
God that Father Anselmo were here!"
A shuffling footstep caught their ears, and both turned towards a boy,
in the dress of one of the Lagunes, who approached from the direction of
the Broglio.
"A reverend Carmelite bid me give you this," said the youth, stealing a
glance behind him, like one who dreaded detection. Then putting a small
piece of paper in the hand of Donna Florinda, he turned his own swarthy
palm, in which a small silver coin glittered, to the moon, and vanished.
By the aid of the same light the governess succeeded in tracing
pencil-marks, in a hand that had been well known to her younger days.
"Save thyself, Florinda--There is not an instant to lose. Avoid public
places, and seek a shelter quickly."
"But whither?" asked the bewildered woman, when she had read aloud the
scroll.
"Anywhere but here," rejoined Donna Violetta; "follow me."
Nature frequently more than supplies the advantages of training and
experience, by her own gifts. Had Donna Florinda been possessed of the
natural decision and firmness of her pupil, she would not now have been
existing in the isolated condition which is so little congenial to
female habits, nor would Father Anselmo have been a monk.
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