And some such design did, in reality, cross Judith; but abandoning it as soon as formed, she resolved to have recourse to more secret, but not less certain measures.
"Well," she said, breaking silence, "since you are determined to have your own way, and catch the plague, and most likely perish from it, I shall not try to hinder you.

Do what you please, and see what will come of it." And she made as if about to depart; but finding Nizza did not attempt to stop her, she halted.
"I cannot leave you thus," she continued; "if you _will_ remain, take this ointment," producing a small jar, "and rub the plague-spot with it.
It is a sovereign remedy, and will certainly effect a cure." "I will not touch it," returned Nizza.
"His death, then, be upon your head," rejoined Judith, quitting the vault, and closing the door after her.
Greatly relieved by her departure, Nizza began to consider what she should do, and whether it would be possible to remove the apprentice to some safer place.

"While occupied with these reflections, the object of her solicitude heaved a deep sigh, and opening his eyes, fixed them upon her.

It was evident, however, that he did not know her, but as far as could be gathered from his ravings, mistook her for Amabel.

By degrees he grew calmer, and the throbbing anguish of the tumour in some measure subsiding, his faculties returned to him.
"Where am I ?" he exclaimed, pressing his hand forcibly to his brow, "and what is the matter with me ?" "You are in a vault, near Saint Faith's," replied Nizza, "and--I will not deceive you--the disorder you are labouring under is the plague." "The plague!" echoed Leonard, with a look of horror.