In the morning, the travelers see the distant lake of Celano from the summit of a mountain. Vivaldi decides to proceed there since the lake is conveniently distant not only from the immediate way to Naples but from San Stefano so that they can avoid unnecessary notice. That there are many convents on the lake, allowing a decent possibility of finding a priest to marry them, is a factor that appeals to Vivaldi.

The three travelers stop at the cottage of an elderly shepherd, taking refreshments. As Vivaldi renews his pleas to Ellena for a solemnization of their nuptials, Paulo notices the two cloaked men who requested a ride from them the previous night. Vivaldi instructs the shepherd to deny them entrance, urging the younger shepherds to check if the two men are still lurking in the vicinity. Ellena and Paulo are particularly suspicious, with Ellena believing that they must have been sent from San Stefano after her absence was noticed.

Having been informed by the shepherds that they have vanished, Ellena, Vivaldi, and Paulo ride toward the lake of Celano, enjoying its scenery. They notice the modern Alba while reflecting on Claudius and his staging of a naval fight.

Upon reaching the town of Celano, Ellena expresses her desire to find a convent where she can stay for the night. Paulo informs them that there is an Ursuline convent at a little fishing town on the bank of the lake.

When they reach the convent, Ellena is readily admitted by the abbess, who recommends the neighboring Benedictine society to Vivaldi. With the departure of Vivaldi, Ellena notices more than usual curiosity and scrutiny in the looks of a few of the nuns.