She had no regret of her undertaking, no fear of what lay before her, but a profound sadness, as though the burden of all mortal sorrows were laid upon her soul.
At seven o'clock she was ready.

A very few things that could be easily carried she would take with her; her cloak would hide them.

Now she must wait for the appointed moment.

It seemed to be very cold; she shivered.
A minute or two before the half-hour, she left her room silently.

On the stairs a servant passed her, and looked surprised in giving the "Buon giorno." She walked quickly through the garden, and was on the firm road.