It emitted no heat: On the contrary, the extreme chillness of the place seemed to augment with every moment.

Matilda continued her incantations: At intervals She took various articles from the Basket, the nature and name of most of which were unknown to the Friar: But among the few which He distinguished, He particularly observed three human fingers, and an Agnus Dei which She broke in pieces.

She threw them all into the flames which burned before her, and they were instantly consumed.
The Monk beheld her with anxious curiosity.

Suddenly She uttered a loud and piercing shriek.

She appeared to be seized with an access of delirium; She tore her hair, beat her bosom, used the most frantic gestures, and drawing the poignard from her girdle plunged it into her left arm.