The sun set unperceived, and still the thunder pealed, and the lightning flashed, and the rain poured.

Supper was set; but Gerard and Margaret could not eat: the thought that this was the last time they should sup together choked them.

The storm lulled a little.

Peter retired to rest.

But Gerard was to go at peep of day, and neither he nor Margaret could afford to lose an hour in sleep.