Elena left the Farnese palace very soon after this, almost stealthily, without taking leave of Andrea or of any one else.

She had therefore not stayed more than half an hour at the ball.

Her lover searched for her through all the rooms in vain.

The next morning, he sent a servant to the Palazzo Barberini to inquire after the duchess, and learned from him that she was ill.

In the evening he went in person, hoping to be received; but a maid informed him that her mistress was in great pain and could see no one.