Whilst I was thus loitering in the sunshine, two well-dressed men approached me, and with somewhat excessive courtesy began conversation.

They understood that I was about to drive to Cosenza.

A delightful day, and a magnificent country! They too thought of journeying to Cosenza, and, in short, would I allow them to share my carriage?
Now this was annoying; I much preferred to be alone with my thoughts; but it seemed ungracious to refuse.

After a glance at their smiling faces, I answered that whatever room remained in the vehicle was at their service--on the natural understanding that they shared the expense; and to this, with the best grace in the world, they at once agreed.

We took momentary leave of each other, with much bowing and flourishing of hats, and the amusing thing was that I never beheld those gentlemen again.
Fortunately--as the carriage proved to be a very small one, and the sun was getting very hot; with two companions I should have had an uncomfortable day.