Pagina 263 de 483

"These thoughts calmed me, and in the afternoon I sank into a

profound sleep; but the fever of my blood did not allow me to be

visited by peaceful dreams. The horrible scene of the preceding

day was for ever acting before my eyes; the females were flying

and the enraged Felix tearing me from his father's feet. I awoke

exhausted, and finding that it was already night, I crept forth

from my hiding-place, and went in search of food.

"When my hunger was appeased, I directed my steps towards the

well-known path that conducted to the cottage. All there was at

peace. I crept into my hovel and remained in silent expectation

of the accustomed hour when the family arose. That hour passed,

the sun mounted high in the heavens, but the cottagers did not

appear. I trembled violently, apprehending some dreadful

misfortune. The inside of the cottage was dark, and I heard no

motion; I cannot describe the agony of this suspense.