"Do you hear above all the tumult that strident voice? It is my uncle Ladislaus," cried the countess, grasping the abbé's arm with both her hands. "Do you hear that horrible laugh? It is my uncle's laugh."
"We will soon learn the author of that unpleasant cachinnation," remarked the priest, quietly.
"Why, what do you propose to do?"
"I shall go down and join the worshipful society below."
"You will descend into the vault? What to do?"
"To pass judgment upon that unruly gang, countess. You promised to accompany me."
"I promised!" and Theudelinde retreated from him, her eyes staring wildly, her hands pressed to her breast.
"It was your own wish."
"True, true! I am so confused; my thoughts are all astray. I cannot recollect them. You here, and that fearful noise below! I am terribly afraid."
"How? You who had the courage to go among the ghosts by yourself, are you afraid now that I am with you? Give me your hand."