Having descended the small staircase, they found themselves on the second floor, on the spacious landing of the grand staircase.

And Pierre was surprised and saddened by the scanty illumination, which, as in some dingy lodging-house, was limited to a few gas-jets, placed far apart, their yellow splotches but faintly relieving the deep gloom of the lofty, endless corridors.

All was gigantic and funereal.

Even on the landing, where was the entrance to Donna Serafina's apartments, facing those occupied by her niece, nothing indicated that a reception was being held that evening.

The door remained closed, not a sound came from the rooms, a death-like silence arose from the whole palace.