Pagina 530 di 1118

Lucy was seated, busy at her work; it fell from her hands; she

turned pale, and her emotion must certainly have attracted the

attention of the portress, had she not been too eagerly engaged

in delivering her report to Agnes, who was standing by the door

at some distance from the poor girl. Agnes, notwithstanding she

was much agitated, avoided any exhibition of her feelings. She

made an effort to reply, that in a small village every one was

known, but she could hardly believe this to be true of

Tramaglino, as he was a quiet worthy youth. She asked if it was

true that he had escaped, and if it was known where he was?

"Escaped, he certainly has, for every one knows it; but where, no

one knows. Perhaps they may take him again, perhaps he is in

safety; but if your peaceful youth falls into their hands--"