Page:The Bridge of San Luis Rey (Grossett & Dunlap).pdf/207

 Camila was silent a moment, then said abruptly: “Very well,” and closed the shutter. Presently she appeared around the corner of the house. She wore a thick cloak that dragged in the dew. She stood at a distance and said: “Come over here to where I am standing,—Who are you?”

Uncle Pio rose up. “Camila, it is I,—Uncle Pio. Forgive me, but I must speak to you.”

“Mother of God, when shall I be free of this dreadful person! Understand: I want to see no one. I don’t want to speak to a soul. My life is over. That is all.”

“Camila, by our long life together, I beg of you to grant me one thing. I shall go away and never trouble you again.”

“I grant you nothing, nothing. Stay away from me.”

“I promise you I shall never trouble you again if you listen to me this once.” She was hurrying around to the door on the other side of the house and Uncle Pio was obliged to run beside her to