She knew the whole extent of Giovanni's love for her, and, what old Saracinesca never guessed, the strength of her own love for him, for the sake of which she would do all that a woman could do.

There was a long pause after the old Prince had spoken.

He waited patiently for an answer.
"I understand you--yes," she said at last.

"If you are right in your surmises, I should have some influence over your son.

If I can advise him, and he will take my advice, I will give him the best counsel I can.
You have placed me in a very embarrassing position, and you have shown little courtesy in the way you have spoken to me; but I will try to do as you request me, if the opportunity offers, for the sake of--of turning what is very bad into something which may at last be good." "Thank you, thank you, Duchessa!" cried the Prince.