Jeanne caught the words "to bed" and with a look of gratitude, consented by a nod.
Maria had prepared the best room in the little apartment for Jeanne and Noemi--the corner room opposite Giovanni's study, on the other side of the corridor.

While Jeanne was walking painfully towards it, leaning on Noemi's arm, Selva returned, having accompanied his friends as far as the gate.

His wife heard his step on the stairs, and went down to detain him.

They spoke, in the dark, with hushed voices.

Then it was really he; but how could she have recognised him?
Indeed Giovanni had attempted to place himself between Jeanne and Don Clemente at the critical moment, and the Padre had passed her almost running; but he, Giovanni, had at once suspected something, for Signora Dessalle had stood like a statue, not giving him her hand, and hardly responding to his greeting.