I thought that she had made up her mind to take the veil, and there are few things that will turn a maiden from that when once she has chosen it.
Then said Relf: "Maybe I ask you too suddenly, lady.

Let us leave it till tomorrow, and I pray you think with all kindness of the matter, for I shall be sorely grieved if you will not come." And I said the same as well as I could, but though she promised to give her answer in the morning, it was plain to me that it would be even as she said now.
Then we took our leave of her, and found our way out of the place, somewhat down-hearted.

The door was bolted after us, though I do not know who did it, or whence the portress watched our going.

And it was dismal to hear the great bars jarring in their sockets.
"Poor maid," said Relf.

"Why does she choose such a prison ?" "Those dismal nuns have talked her into it," said I angrily.
"Maybe.