Anastase, on finding himself in the small hours
of the morning with Faustina on his hands and knowing that
discovery must follow soon after day-break, had boldly brought her
to the Palazzo Saracinesca and had demanded Corona's assistance.
As the artist thought the matter over, he became more and more
convinced that he had understood the princess's conduct, and the
reflection made him redden with shame and anger. He determined to
seize the first moment that presented itself for an explanation
with the woman who had wronged him. He unexpectedly found himself
at liberty towards five o'clock in the afternoon and made haste at
once to reach the Palazzo Saracinesca. Knowing that no one would
be allowed to be in the streets after dark, he felt sure of
finding Corona without visitors, and expected the most favourable
opportunity for talking over the subject which distressed him.
After waiting several minutes in one of the outer halls he was
ushered in, and to his extreme annoyance found himself in the
midst of a family party. He had not counted upon the presence of
the men of the household, and the fact that the baby was also
present did not facilitate matters. Old Saracinesca greeted him
warmly; Sant' Ilario looked grave; Corona herself looked up from
her game with little Orsino, nodded and uttered a word of
recognition, and then returned to her occupation.
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