"No, no," said he, "don't tell me that, don't continue, you would grieve me dreadfully.

Let us say, if you like, that you have been deceived, for nothing ought to be known, in fact nothing is known, either by others or myself.

I pray you, do not let us talk of such matters." Pierre, however, had fortunately remarked what a decisive effect was produced when he had occasion to mention the name of the Assessor of the Holy Office.

So it occurred to him to reply: "I most certainly do not desire to give you the slightest cause for embarrassment, Monseigneur, and I repeat to you that I would never have ventured to importune you if Monsignor Nani himself had not acquainted me with your name and address." This time the effect was immediate, though Monsignor Fornaro, with that easy grace which he introduced into all things, made some ceremony about surrendering.

He began by a demurrer, speaking archly with subtle shades of expression.