You know as much as I know now." "That does not help me to understand why you accuse me of having caused the quarrel," said Corona.

"What have I to do with Del Ferice, poor man ?" "This--any one can see that you are as indifferent to my son as to any other man.

Every one knows that the Duchessa d'Astrardente is above suspicion." Corona raised her head proudly and stared at Saracinesca.
"But, on the other hand, every one knows that my son loves you madly--can you yourself deny it ?" "Who dares to say it ?" asked Corona, her anger rising afresh.
"Who sees, dares.

Can you deny it ?" "You have no right to repeat such hearsay tales to me," answered Corona.
But the blush rose to her pale dark cheeks, and she suddenly dropped her eyes.
"Can you deny it, Duchessa ?" asked the Prince a third time, insisting roughly.
"Since you are so certain, why need you care for my denial ?" inquired Corona.
"Duchessa, you must forgive me," answered Saracinesca, his tone suddenly softening.

"I am rough, probably rude; but I love my son dearly.