He had long since forgotten to spare others, by denying himself a wish.
The knocking at the door and the passing to and fro in the entry had kept Frau Geel awake.

When she heard the Eletto's heavy step, she sprang up from her spinning-wheel in alarm, and the maid-servant, half roused from sleep, threw herself on her knees.
"Frau Geel!" called a voice outside.
She recognized Navarrete's tones, opened the door, and asked what he desired.
"It was his mother," thought the old lady as he threw clothes, linen and many a trifle on the floor.

"It was his mother.

Perhaps he wants her rosary or prayer book.

He is her son! They looked like a happy couple when they were together.