Uttering a deep groan, I fell senseless at the feet of my unrelenting Enemy.

I know not how long I remained in this situation; But I imagine that some time must have elapsed before my recovery, since it sufficed the Prioress and her Nuns to quit the Cavern.

When my senses returned, I found myself in silence and solitude.

I heard not even the retiring footsteps of my Persecutors.

All was hushed, and all was dreadful! I had been thrown upon the bed of Straw: The heavy Chain which I had already eyed with terror, was wound around my waist, and fastened me to the Wall.