He was so simple, and yet so
dignified withal, that she could not help liking him. It was not
clear to her, however, that she could mend matters by interfering,
nor by offering advice to the one or sympathy to the other.
Saracinesca himself was the first to break the silence. It seemed
to him that everything had been said, and that nothing now
remained but to fulfil the requisite formalities.
"Shall we proceed to business?" he inquired, as though ignoring
all the previous conversation. "I believe we have a great deal to
do, and the time is passing."
San Giacinto made no reply, but rose gravely and made a gesture
signifying that he would show the way to the study. Saracinesca
made a show of refusing to go out first, then yielded and went on.
San Giacinto waited at the door for Corona and Giovanni. "I will
join you in a moment--I know the way," said the latter, remaining
behind with his wife.
When they were alone he led her towards one of the windows, as
though to be doubly sure that no one could hear what he was about
to say. Then he stood still and looked into her eyes.
"Would you like us to accept such a favour from him?" he asked.
"Tell me the truth."
"No," answered Corona without the least hesitation. "But I am
sorry for San Giacinto.
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