Pagina 400 di 1118

Meanwhile the sun had set, and twilight threw the same indistinct

hue over every object. Many, fatigued with the day, and wearied

with conversing in the dark, returned to their houses. Our hero,

after having assisted the carriage as far as was necessary,

rejoiced when he beheld it in safety, and as soon as it was in

his power left the crowd, so that he might, once more, breathe

freely. Hardly had he taken a few steps in the open air, when he

experienced a re-action after such excitement, and began to feel

the need of food and repose; he therefore looked upward on either

side, in search of a sign, which might hold out to him the

prospect of satisfying his wants, as it was too late to think of

going to the convent.