She would find some means
of persuading Carlino to start immediately. Noemi was frightened. For
her own peace of mind, as well as for Don Clemente's, her brother-in-law
would not wish Jeanne Dessalle to return to Subiaco. It was Noemi's
mission to convince her of the propriety of such a renunciation. Selva
was restored to health, and had himself offered to come and meet his
sister-in-law, would even come to Belgium, were it necessary. She now
tried to oppose the idea of immediate departure; but only succeeded
in irritating Jeanne, who repeatedly protested that the Selvas were
mistaken, but was unable to give any other reason for her violent
resistance. Carlino, having caught a sharp "That is enough" uttered by
his sister, drew nearer. Were they quarrelling, the priest and the girl?
Now, when the mystical tenderness ought to begin? "Do leave us alone,"
said Noemi. "By this time your old priest of ninety would be dead ten
times over of fatigue. Don't give us any more orders. I will lead
the way. I know Bruges better than you, and you keep a hundred paces
behind.
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