From the church below came up the soft sound that many women make when they move silently together.

The nuns were passing out in their appointed order.
Beatrice remained kneeling a few moments longer, crossed herself and then rose.

At the same moment Unorna was on her feet.

The necessity for immediate action at all costs restored the calm to her face and the tactful skill to her actions.

She reached the door first, and then, half turning her head, stood aside, as though to give Beatrice precedence in passing.