The Mysteries of Udolpho

Thus they sat, till near midnight, but not without many hints from

Annette, that she wished to go. The embers were now nearly burnt out;

and Emily heard, at a distance, the thundering sound of the hall doors,

as they were shut for the night. She, therefore, prepared for rest, but

was still unwilling that Annette should leave her. At this instant, the

great bell of the portal sounded. They listened in fearful expectation,

when, after a long pause of silence, it sounded again. Soon after, they

heard the noise of carriage wheels in the court-yard. Emily sunk almost

lifeless in her chair; 'It is the Count,' said she.

'What, at this time of night, ma'am!' said Annette: 'no, my dear lady.

But, for that matter, it is a strange time of night for any body to

come!' 'Nay, pr'ythee, good Annette, stay not talking,' said Emily in a voice

of agony--'Go, pr'ythee, go, and see who it is.'

Annette left the room, and carried with her the light, leaving Emily in

darkness, which a few moments before would have terrified her in this

room, but was now scarcely observed by her. She listened and waited, in

breathless expectation, and heard distant noises, but Annette did not

return. Her patience, at length, exhausted, she tried to find her way

to the corridor, but it was long before she could touch the door of the

chamber, and, when she had opened it, the total darkness without made

her fear to proceed. Voices were now heard, and Emily even thought she

distinguished those of Count Morano, and Montoni. Soon after, she

heard steps approaching, and then a ray of light streamed through the

darkness, and Annette appeared, whom Emily went to meet.

'Yes, ma'amselle,' said she, 'you was right, it is the Count sure

enough.' 'It is he!' exclaimed Emily, lifting her eyes towards heaven and

supporting herself by Annette's arm.

'Good Lord! my dear lady, don't be in such a FLUSTER, and look so pale,

we shall soon hear more.' 'We shall, indeed!' said Emily, moving as fast as she was able towards

her apartment. 'I am not well; give me air.' Annette opened a casement,

and brought water. The faintness soon left Emily, but she desired

Annette would not go till she heard from Montoni. 'Dear ma'amselle! he surely will not disturb you at this time of night;

why he must think you are asleep.' 'Stay with me till I am so, then,' said Emily, who felt temporary relief

from this suggestion, which appeared probable enough, though her fears

had prevented its occurring to her. Annette, with secret reluctance,

consented to stay, and Emily was now composed enough to ask her some

questions; among others, whether she had seen the Count.