“You will get accustomed to the silence by degrees,” she answered, and led the way towards the staircase.
When they reached the little sitting-room where the fire burnt, Rosalie was pleased to find a white cloth laid there, with supper on it. It was a very plain repast, but cheerful, possibly because of the bright lamp and firelight.
“When do you have your supper?” she asked of Mariana.
“I have had mine.”
“What is the time?”
“Almost ten o’clock.”
“How late! That is the time I generally go to bed. What time do you go?”
“As soon as you are settled for the night I shall retire.”
“Where do you sleep?”
“In the next room to yours. If you want anything in the night, you may ring or come to me.”