She often saw the Selvas and Noemi; not at their home, but at the Grand Hotel.

The Selvas themselves were captivated by the fascination of this woman, so superior, so beautiful, so gentle and sad.

All she had heard from Guarnacci concerning Benedetto she had already heard from Noemi.

But she had not been aware of Professor Mayda's sad opinion.

Partly from kindness, but partly also that her own emotion might not be revealed, Noemi had hidden it from her, * * * * * Carlino received her unkindly.