Pagina 650 di 1118

The Unknown and the cardinal remained for some moments silent and

undecided; the former experienced at the same time a vague hope

of finding some relief to his internal torments, and also a

degree of irritation and shame at appearing in this place as a

penitent, to confess his sins, and implore pardon of a man. He

could not speak; indeed, he hardly wished to do so. However, as

he raised his eyes to the cardinal's face, he was seized with an

irresistible sentiment of respect, which increasing his

confidence, and subduing his pride without offending it,

nevertheless kept him silent.