But in spite of the
dutiful tone of voice in which she spoke, the dim light of the
tall lamps in the antechambers showed a strange expression of
mingled amusement and contrariety in the girl's ethereal face.
CHAPTER II.
"You know Gouache?" asked old Prince Saracinesca, in a tone which
implied that he had news to tell. He looked from his daughter-in-
law to his son as he put the question, and then went on with his
breakfast.
"Very well," answered Giovanni. "What about him?"
"He was knocked down by a carriage last night. The carriage
belonged to Montevarchi, and Gouache is at his house, in danger of
his life."
"Poor fellow!" exclaimed Corona in ready sympathy. "I am so sorry!
I am very fond of Gouache."
Giovanni Saracinesca, known to the world since his marriage as
Prince of Sant' Ilario, glanced quickly at his wife, so quickly
that neither she nor the old gentleman noticed the fact.
The three persons sat at their midday breakfast in the dining-room
of the Palazzo Saracinesca. After much planning and many
discussions the young couple had determined to take up their abode
with Giovanni's father. There were several reasons which had led
them to this decision, but the two chief ones were that they were
both devotedly attached to the old man; and secondly, that such a
proceeding was strictly fitting and in accordance with the customs
of Romans.
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