There would be no need for the presence of the supervising nurse, who would have no difficulty in keeping out of Giovanni's way for the present, as he would certainly not be allowed to roam the hospital in search of her.
She meant to meet him once and alone, no matter how she might be hindered, and nothing that the Mother Superior or Monsignor Saracinesca could say should make it impossible.

She knew that he would try every means of seeing her, and when he succeeded in making an opportunity which she could accept, she would take it, come what might; till then, she must wait, and while she was waiting she would find the strength she needed.
That was her plan, and it was simple enough.

She might be mistaken about many questions, but nothing could make that seem wrong which her conscience told her was right.

And it was right to see him once; she was sure of it.

The rest was confused and uncertain and she took no thought what she should say; she only knew she must make him understand, though it would be hard, and when that was done, she would not see him again while she lived.
She meant to make that final parting a certainty by going to Rangoon with the next mission; nothing should change her determination now.
Her feet were heavy that day, and her voice was dull and muffled when she gave her orders; but she made no mistakes.