The governess stood near the door, watching for the sound of footsteps in the antechamber.

The monk then advanced to the entrance of the little chapel, and was about to speak, when a hurried step from Donna Florinda arrested his words.

Don Camillo had just time to conceal his person within the drapery of a window, before the door opened and Annina entered.
When the preparations of the altar and the solemn countenance of the priest first met her eye, the girl recoiled with the air of one rebuked.
But rallying her thoughts, with that readiness which had gained her the employment she filled, she crossed herself reverently, and took a place apart, like one who, while she knew her station, wished to participate in the mysteries of the holy office.
"Daughter, none who commence this mass with us, can quit the presence ere it be completed,", observed the monk.
"Father, it is my duty to be near the person of my mistress, and it is a happiness to be near it on the occasion of this early matin." The monk was embarrassed.

He looked from one to the other, in indecision, and was about to frame some pretence to get rid of the intruder, when Don Cainillo appeared in the middle of the room.
"Reverend monk, proceed," he said; "'tis but another witness of my happiness." While speaking, the noble touched the handle of his sword significantly with a finger, and cast a look at the half petrified Annina, which effectually controlled the exclamation that was about to escape her.

The monk appeared to understand the terms of this silent compact, for with a deep voice he commenced the offices of the mass.