Pagina 752 di 1118

The two females had as far as possible resumed, for the few days

they had to pass under the hospitable roof of the tailor, their

usual manner of life. As she had done at the monastery, Lucy, in

a small chamber apart, employed herself in sewing; and Agnes,

keeping much at home, remained for the most part with her

daughter. Their conversations were affectionate and sorrowful;

both were prepared for a separation, since the sheep could not

dwell in the neighbourhood of the wolf. But how long was this

separation to continue? The future was dark and inexplicable, but

Agnes, notwithstanding, was full of agreeable anticipation.

"After all," said she, "if no irreparable misfortune has befallen

Renzo, we shall soon hear from him. If he has found employment,

(and who can doubt it?) and if he keeps the faith he has sworn to

you, why cannot we go and live with him?" Her daughter felt as

much sorrow in listening to her hopes, as difficulty in replying

to them.