Her thoughts were far away on the lonely island.

As sunset quickly faded into twilight, carriages and pedestrians wound their way down the hill.

The noble trees on its summit became solemn silhouettes against the darkening sky, and the monotonous trickling of the fountain in the court below sounded more distinct as the street noises subsided.

She was growing a little anxious, when she heard soft footfalls on the stairs, which she at once recognized and hastened to meet.

"O, you have been gone so long!" she exclaimed.