"Signore," he said to Artois, "I will go down to the Saint's Pool. I
will find Ruffo. I will bring him here. I will make him come here."
He was going out when Artois put a hand on his shoulder.
"And the Padrona?"
"Signore, she is always there, in her room, in the dark."
"And you have heard nothing?"
"Signore, I have heard the Padrona moving."
The hand of Artois dropped down. He was invaded by a sense of relief
that was almost overwhelming.
"You are certain?"
"Si, Signore. The Padrona is walking up and down the room. When
Peppina screamed out I heard the Padrona move. And then I heard her
walking up and down the room."
He looked again at the death-charm and went out. Vere stood for a
moment. Then she, too, went suddenly away, and Artois heard her light
footstep retreating from him towards the terrace.
He understood her silent and abrupt departure. His fear had been hers.
His relief was hers, too, and she was moved to hide it. He was left
alone with the death-charm.
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