He persuaded himself that (as Matilda
had observed), He always should have time sufficient for
repentance, and that as He employed HER assistance, not that of
the Daemons, the crime of Sorcery could not be laid to his
charge. He had read much respecting witchcraft: He understood
that unless a formal Act was signed renouncing his claim to
salvation, Satan would have no power over him. He was fully
determined not to execute any such act, whatever threats might be
used, or advantages held out to him.
Such were his meditations while waiting for Matilda. They were
interrupted by a low murmur which seemed at no great distance
from him. He was startled. He listened. Some minutes past in
silence, after which the murmur was repeated. It appeared to be
the groaning of one in pain. In any other situation, this
circumstance would only have excited his attention and curiosity:
In the present, his predominant sensation was that of terror. His
imagination totally engrossed by the ideas of sorcery and
Spirits, He fancied that some unquiet Ghost was wandering near
him; or else that Matilda had fallen a Victim to her presumption,
and was perishing under the cruel fangs of the Daemons. The
noise seemed not to approach, but continued to be heard at
intervals. Sometimes it became more audible, doubtless as the
sufferings of the person who uttered the groans became
more acute and insupportable. Ambrosio now and then thought
that He could distinguish accents; and once in particular He was
almost convinced that He heard a faint voice exclaim,
'God! Oh! God! No hope! No succour!'
Yet deeper groans followed these words.
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