midday
Her original object was to obtain an interview with Wagner that very night , and learn , if possible , the reason of his extraordinary conduct toward her : for the idea of remaining in suspense for many long , long hours , was painful in the extreme to a woman of her excitable nature . She was , however , compelled to resign herself to this alternative ; and , having let herself through the wicket belonging to the physician 's gardens , she directed her steps homeward . On her way she passed by the gate of the Convent of Carmelite Nuns -- one of the wealthiest , most strictly disciplined , and celebrated monastic establishments in the Florentine Republic . It appeared that a sudden thought here struck her ; for ascending to the steep leading to the gate , she paused beneath the lamp of the deep Gothic portico , took out her tablets , and hastily wrote the following words : `` Donna Nisida of Riverola requests an interview with the Lady Abbess Maria to-morrow at midday , on a matter seriously regarding the spiritual welfare of a young female who has shown great and signal disregard for the rites and ordinances of the most Holy Catholic Church : and in respect to whom the most severe measures must be adopted . Donna Nisida will visit the holy mother to-morrow at midday . '' Having written these words , Nisida tore off the leaf and thrust it through a small square grating set in the massive door of the convent . Then ringing the bell to call attention to the gate , she hastily pursued her way homeward .