Forthwith the deacon was admitted.

Alone in the great hall, Aurelia sat beside a brasier, at which she warmed her hands; she scarcely deigned to glance at the ecclesiastic.
'You pursue your journey, reverend ?' were her first words.
'As far as Neapolis, gracious lady,' came the suave reply.

'There or in the neighbourhood I shall remain at least ten days.

Should you desire to communicate with me--' 'I think I can save that trouble,' interrupted Aurelia, with quivering lips.

'All I have to say to your Sanctity, I will say at once.