that time He had no voice at all.'

'Upon my word, Antonia, you argue very closely! Your conclusions
are infallible! I did not suspect you of being so able a
Logician.'

'Ah! You are mocking me! But so much the better. It delights me
to see you in spirits: Besides you seem tranquil and easy, and I
hope that you will have no more convulsions. Oh! I was sure the
Abbot's visit would do you good!'

'It has indeed done me good, my Child. He has quieted my mind
upon some points which agitated me, and I already feel the
effects of his attention. My eyes grow heavy, and I think I can
sleep a little. Draw the curtains, my Antonia: But if I should
not wake before midnight, do not sit up with me, I charge you.'

Antonia promised to obey her, and having received her blessing
drew the curtains of the Bed. She then seated herself in silence
at her embroidery frame, and beguiled the hours with building
Castles in the air. Her spirits were enlivened by the evident
change for the better in Elvira, and her fancy presented her with
visions bright and pleasing. In these dreams Ambrosio made no
despicable figure. She thought of him with joy and gratitude;
But for every idea which fell to the Friar's share, at least two
were unconsciously bestowed upon Lorenzo. Thus passed the time,
till the Bell in the neighbouring Steeple of the Capuchin
Cathedral announced the hour of midnight: Antonia remembered her
Mother's injunctions, and obeyed them, though with reluctance.
She undrew the curtains with caution. Elvira was enjoying a