I fancied she might have refused his assistance, but she did not.

Soon I heard her pass my door, and wishing to know the result of their interview I went downstairs, seeing that the gondola had not put off with him.

He was turning from the door, but not towards the water, intending apparently to walk home by way of the calle which led into the Via 22 Marzo.
'Has she forgiven you ?' said I.
'I have not asked her,' he said.
'But you are bound to do so,' I told him.
He paused, and then said, 'Alicia, let us understand each other.

Do you mean to tell me, once for all, that if your sister is willing to become my wife you absolutely make way for her, and will not entertain any thought of what I suggested to you any more ?' 'I do tell you so,' said I with dry lips.

'You belong to her--how can I do otherwise ?' 'Yes; it is so; it is purely a question of honour,' he returned.