It stood still an instant, wagging its head while its shoulders contracted violently.

Then it glided under the chest of drawers to die alone, if possible, after the manner of animals of prey.

The girl and her maid heard its rattling breathing and its convulsions: its body thumped against the lower drawer.

Then, while Veronica listened and Elettra bent, candle in hand, till her face touched the floor, to see it and get it out, all at once it was quiet.
"Get up," said Veronica, nervously, for she was fond of the creature.
"Help me to move the chest of drawers out.

Then we can get it out." "It is dead," answered Elettra, still on the floor, and thrusting her long, thin arm under the piece of furniture.