"Oh, I should never think of such a thing!"
Nevertheless, the countess had now to consider whether she should remain alone in the castle or take the alternative of accompanying the priest in a heavy fall of snow.
"Somebody is knocking at the door," said the abbé.
"It must be my steward," returned Theudelinde. "He has heard what has happened, and has come to our assistance."
"But there is no one to open the door. Your portress was one of the ghosts."
"She was the old witch who danced on the table."
"Have you by chance a second key?"
"It hangs there on that large bunch to the right."
"Then I will take it with me, in case there is none in the lock."
"But the dogs, father, they will tear you in pieces. They are fierce to strangers."