Section 10: Chapter 21 and 22 Summary

In chapter twenty-one, Ellena finds no contradictions between Schedoni's story and her knowledge of her family. Believing Schedoni designed nothing more than separating her and Vivaldi, Ellena convinces herself that Schedoni saved her from Spalatro when she sees the dagger that Schedoni dropped. Shut in his chamber, Schedoni agonizes over the fact that he has been working against his own best interests in his schemes to separate Ellena and Vivaldi and decides to try to obtain Marchesa di Vivaldi's approbation for the union. Acknowledging that his first step must be to free Vivaldi, Schedoni decides to convey Ellena back to Naples personally and orders the carriage before acquainting Ellena with their imminent departure. Ellena praises Schedoni for saving her from Spalatro, and they depart with a guide. Terrified by the prospect of an interview with the Marchesa, Schedoni nearly...