'Yonder priest tells me,' he added, 'that you were over hasty; that
you struck on a mere suspicion. And methinks he may be right. By the
Holy Cross, I could well believe this maiden a maiden in very deed.
I never looked upon a purer brow, an eye that spoke more innocently.
Hark ye, my good Basil, I am told that you have not spoken with her.
If you would fain do so before we set forth, I will be no hinderer.
Go, if you will, into yonder room'--he pointed to a door near by--'
and when she descends (I have but to call), you shall see her
undisturbed.'
For a moment Basil sat motionless; then, without a word, he rose and
went whither Venantius directed him. But a few minutes passed before
he saw Veranilda enter. She was clad for travel, a veil over her
face; this, and the shadow in which Basil stood, made her at first
unaware of his presence, for Venantius had only requested her to
enter this room until the carriage was ready. Standing with bowed
head, she sobbed.
'Why do you weep?' demanded an abrupt voice, which made her draw
back trembling.
Basil moved a little towards her.
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