I thought it strange that he should have asked for it." "It was very natural.

He wished you to forget his existence." "He asked me many questions about Giovanni," said the priest, "but I could not answer him at that time." "You could answer now ?" inquired the Prince, eagerly.
"Excuse me, my good sir; what relation are you to Giovanni?
You say you are from Rome ?" "Let us understand each other, Signor Curato," said Saracinesca.

"I see I had better explain the position.

I am Leone Saracinesca, the prince of that name, and the head of the family." The priest bowed respectfully at this intelligence.

"My only son lives with me in Rome--he is now there--and his name is Giovanni Saracinesca.