He described Maironi as a ghost, a corpse.

She was in despair.

She knew of the conflict between Professor Mayda and his daughter-in-law, knew the Professor was often called away from Rome; she considered him a great surgeon, but not a great doctor; she believed that daring these absences the young lady would take no care of the sick man, would show him no attentions.

And she also knew about the three days the Director-General had allowed him.

Oh! it was not possible to leave Piero at Villa Mayda! He must be removed! A hiding-place must be found, where neither the police nor the _carabinieri_ would be able to unearth him; where he would be well nursed, have every attention, and be in the hands of a skilful physician.
She did not think of consulting the Selvas.