"I should like to hear about this garden," she said.
The Friends and the middle-aged spinster, engaged in a warm discussion of Benedetto's Catholic orthodoxy, would not have left off for ten bells, had not the spinster's curiosity been roused by the word "garden." It now burst forth unchecked! Garden indeed! The Professor must tell them all he knew about this Father Hecker, who was an Italian and a layman.

Partly to display her knowledge, partly from thoughtlessness, she had already bestowed this title upon Benedetto.
The insipid young woman consulted her watch.

Her carriage must be at the door.

Little Signorina Guarnacci said there were already four or five carriages at the door.

The insipid young woman was anxious to reach the Valle in time for the third act of the comedy, and two other ladies, who had engagements, left at the same time.