Judith was apparently indifferent to a
habit which she looked upon as a caprice of her faithful servant, and
the only evidence of her noticing it was her concentration in her own
apartments of all that related to her personal studies and pursuits.
It was now Jean's turn to listen and learn, and Hilda's to explain and
instruct. Towards nine o'clock he was preparing to return. He was
indifferent to the darkness, as by this time he knew the track so well
that he crossed it fearlessly at all hours. His hand was on the bolt
when Tita announced in alarm that Judith was returning and was on the
point of entering. Hardly was there time to conceal him behind the
hangings before she appeared. Her countenance was pale and worn, her
tone, as Hilda took off her outer garments was weary and sad. "The
portents were hostile and dangerous," she said; "they foretold woe,
disaster, ruin. Will the mighty ones reveal to me the future? I cannot
tell! But my spirit must commune with them till dawn breaks. Dost hear
them? They call me now!" She held up her finger as a sudden blast rocked
the tower to its foundations. "Aye," she continued more firmly after a
pause, "they will not forget those who are true to them.
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