Volume I Part 16 (1/2)
”I will try to be back soon Adieu”
Madae and drove off in the direction of Toulon
The feelings of the poor wonio to see Benedetto as she had proined She had seen all her hopes reduced to nothing Her husband had fled after a shahter had disappeared without leaving a word behind her, and as left to her? The child of her shaalleys forfor this son, whom she loved dearly; the Jesuits had taken her h, to her idea, the galleys orse than death; but there was a chance of his getting free No, she did not wish to think any more; she would bury herself in a convent in Asia Minor, and forget everything
Toulon was at length reached; the driver took the road to the port, and she felt her heart cease beating In a little while she would see Benedetto; the carriage stopped; the driver got out and opened the door
”Will you please step out? Here is the Bagnio”
With tre a few gold pieces into his hand, she said:
”Make yourself comfortable in the nearest saloon; in about three hours we shall return home”
”To-day, madame?” asked the man; ”that would be impossible”
”Why i”
”I am very sorry, madame, but the storm, the mistral will come very soon, and while the mistral lasts we cannot ride”
”Then I must look for another driver; I cannot delay my return”
”Madame, believe me, you will not find any one ill drive you while the storm lasts Wait till to-le and await your commands there”
”I will think about it, but doubt whether I shall follow your advice
Adieu”
Madalars entered the office of the port inspector and the driver drove off
CHAPTER XV
IN THE BAGNIO
”Well, what is the lars handed hily opened the letter, but when he had read its contents his face lighted up and,a respectful bow, he said:
”Mada these lines, I can only carry out all your wishes, as far as they are confined within the limits of the rules in force here You desire to see one of our prisoners?”
”Yes, sir”
”You are aware that such an interview can only take place in the presence of the chaplain?”