In a few seconds she heard the voice again, and though the tone was lower, the words were as distinct as if spoken close to her ear.
'I hid it on me, and left my little bag behind on purpose because the footman would be sure to open that, to take my cigarettes.

I knew he often did.

It was very clever of me was it not?
He will swear that he went back for the bag and that there were no papers in it.' It was not the first time, by many, that Sister Giovanna had heard a delirious patient tell a shameful secret that had been kept long and well.

She rose with an effort, pressing one hand upon the table.

It was plainly her duty to prevent any further revelations if she could and to forget what she had heard; for a trained nurse's standard of honour must be as high as a doctor's, since she is trusted as he is.
Yet the nun waited a moment before going round the screen, unconsciously arguing that if the patient did not speak again it would be better not to disturb her at that moment.