Lady Ab. What! Inez, musing—art not well, my child? Inez. I've slept badly, aunt, and have a headache. Lady Ab. Here's that will cure it. Inez. What! A letter? Lady Ab. Ay, from thy father; it was hither brought By an old servitor. Inez. The good Pedro? Lady Ab. I think the same; I've seen his face before. Thou know'st, Inez, that it is my custom To break the seal of all the letters that Come here directed to my novices, To prevent clandestine correspondence; But knowing well my brother's handwriting, And being well informed of the contents By this same Pedro, I deemed it useless. Read it then, dear, thyself. 417 Inez. (Reads.) "My dearest child, The time has now come round when thou should'st end Thy course of studies at St. Ursula's. It is my wish that thou at once take leave For ever of thy aunt, the Lady Abbess, And without more delay prepare to start In the company of my servant Pedro. See that thou be not tardy, but straightway, Quick after the perusal of these lines, Set off upon thy journey, for I have Much to say to thee. Greet my good sister. Your loving father, Silvio." Dearest aunt, I know not if I should laugh for joy or weep, For, returning home to see my father, I needs must bid farewell to you, who e'er Have been a mother to me. Lady Ab. Dearest child! I am full loath to part with thee, but still, In obedience to thy father's orders, Thou must not tarry. Take my blessing then, And may the blessed Virgin and the saints Protect thee from all harm upon the road. Kiss me, my Inez, and now straight commence To get thy baggage ready. Inez. And Pedro? Lady Ab. He is without. I'll call him. What! Pedro. 418 Lady Ab. Inez. Lady Ab. Inez. What! A letter? Lady Ab. Inez. The good Pedro? Lady Ab.
Prev.
Back
Top