Even the cardinal believed it, taking it almost for granted.
On the afternoon of the day before her departure Gianluca came, walking with difficulty and excusing himself for bringing his stick with him into the drawing-room.

He was very pale, and looked more ill than for a long time past.

But he spoke calmly enough, though saying little more than was required, while Bianca and Veronica kept up the conversation.
Veronica was in good spirits and was evidently looking forward to the journey with pleasure and curiosity.
Then Ghisleri appeared, followed shortly by Taquisara, who had called very rarely during the winter.

Veronica thought that he had grown very cold and silent.

He slowly stirred a cup of tea which he did not drink, and he scarcely joined in the conversation at all.