The features were such as one sees in classic marbles--the full clear eyes were set somewhat widely apart under shelving brows that denoted a brain with intelligence to use it, and the smile that lightened his expression as he looked from, the sea to his fair hostess was of a benignant sweetness.
"Yes"-- he continued--"you have realised your vision of loveliness, have you not?
Our friend Giulio Rivardi has carried out all your plans ?" "Everything is perfect!" said Morgana--"Or will be when it is finished.
The workmen still have things to do." "All workmen always have things to do!" said Don Aloysius, tranquilly--"And nothing is ever finished! And you, dear child!--you are happy ?" She flushed and paled under his deep, steady gaze.
"I--I think so!" she murmured--"I ought to be!" The priest smiled and after a pause took the chair which the Marchese Rivardi offered him.

The other guests in the loggia looked at him with interest, fascinated by his grave charm of manner.

Morgana resumed her seat.
"I ought to be happy"-- she said--"And of course I am--or I shall be!" "'Man never is but always to be blest'!" quoted Colonel Boyd--"And woman the same! I have been telling this lady, reverend father, that maybe she will find her 'palazzo' a bit lonesome without some one to share its pleasures." Don Aloysius looked round with a questioning glance.
"What does she herself think about it ?" he asked, mildly.
"I have not thought at all"-- said Morgana, quickly, "I can always fill it with friends.

No end of people are glad to winter in Sicily." "But will such 'friends' care for YOU or YOUR happiness ?" suggested the Marchese, pointedly.
Morgana laughed.
"Oh, no, I do not expect that! Nowadays no one really cares for anybody else's happiness but their own.

Besides, I shall be much too busy to want company.