"I cannot even go downstairs with you--forgive me.

You have your carriage of course ?" "I have a cab," replied Donna Tullia, faintly, submitting to be put out of the door.

He seized her hand and kissed it passionately, or with a magnificent semblance of passion.

With a startled look, Donna Tullia turned and went rapidly down the steps.

Del Ferice smiled softly to himself when she was gone, and went in again to exchange his dressing-gown for a coat.