Page 204 of 1118

Slowly and quietly they took the path that led around the

village,-it would have been nearer to pass directly through it,

to Don Abbondio's house, but their object was to avoid

observation. Upon reaching the house, the lovers remained

concealed on one side of it, Agnes a little in advance, so as to

be prepared to speak to Perpetua as soon as she should make her

appearance. Tony, with Jervase, who did nothing, but without whom

nothing could be done, courageously knocked at the door.

"Who is there, at this hour?" cried a voice from the window,

which they recognised to be that of Perpetua. "No one is sick,

that I know of. What is the matter?"

"It is I," replied Tony, "with my brother; we want to speak with

the curate."

"Is this an hour for Christians?" replied Perpetua, briskly.

"Come to-morrow."