Beatrice did not speak again as she slowly walked up the steep ascent to the hotel.

Bastianello and Teresina exchanged a word now and then in a whisper and Ruggiero came last, watching the dark outline of Beatrice's graceful figure, against the bright light which shone outside at the upper end of the tunnel.

Many confused thoughts oppressed him, but they were like advancing and retreating waves breaking about the central rock of his one unalterable purpose.

He followed Beatrice till they reached the door of the house.

Then she turned and smiled at him, and turned again and went in.