But now I knew all, and it was to see this woman, though in her tomb, that I came.
When I had lit my lantern, which I did as soon as I had pushed open the great door, which was once again unlocked, I turned my steps to the steps of the crypt, which lay behind the richly carven wood screen.

This I could see, with the better light, was a noble piece of work of priceless beauty and worth.

I tried to keep my heart in full courage with thoughts of my Lady, and of the sweetness and dignity of our last meeting; but, despite all, it sank down, down, and turned to water as I passed with uncertain feet down the narrow, tortuous steps.

My concern, I am now convinced, was not for myself, but that she whom I adored should have to endure such a fearful place.

As anodyne to my own pain I thought what it would be, and how I should feel, when I should have won for her a way out of that horror, at any rate.