It had not long been hushed, when He heard Matilda's steps upon the Staircase.

She ascended from the Cavern; The most lively joy animated her beautiful features.
'Did you see any thing ?' She asked.
'Twice I saw a column of light flash up the Staircase.' 'Nothing else ?' 'Nothing.' 'The Morning is on the point of breaking.

Let us retire to the Abbey, lest daylight should betray us.' With a light step She hastened from the burying-ground.

She regained her Cell, and the curious Abbot still accompanied her.

She closed the door, and disembarrassed herself of her Lamp and Basket.
'I have succeeded!' She cried, throwing herself upon his bosom: 'Succeeded beyond my fondest hopes! I shall live, Ambrosio, shall live for you! The step which I shuddered at taking proves to me a source of joys inexpressible! Oh! that I dared communicate those joys to you! Oh! that I were permitted to share with you my power, and raise you as high above the level of your sex, as one bold deed has exalted me above mine!' 'And what prevents you, Matilda ?' interrupted the Friar; 'Why is your business in the Cavern made a secret?
Do you think me undeserving of your confidence?
Matilda, I must doubt the truth of your affection, while you have joys in which I am forbidden to share.' 'You reproach me with injustice.