The young man bowed respectfully to her.
"Well," she asked, briskly approaching him, "what has happened? Speak without fear; no one can hear us."
"What has happened, Madame," answered he, "is, that if these ladies still have the intention to fly, all is ready."
"God be praised!" cried the superior, with, joy, "And when shall they go?"
"Immediately, if they are disposed; tomorrow, as I am assured, it would be too late for them."
"It is but too true, alas!" said she, with a sigh; "So you can answer for their safety?"
"I can answer, Madame, that I would suffer myself to be killed to defend them; a man cannot engage to do more."
"You are right, caballero; it is, in fact, more than we have a right to ask you."
"Now, Madame, be so kind as to inform these ladies as soon as possible; I do not need to repeat, that time is very precious."
"They are aware of it already; they are now finishing their preparations; in a short time they will be here."