He had not told the Chief of Police about her, for he thought it would be amusing to do a little detective work on his own account, and he anticipated the triumph of finding out Marcello's story alone, and of then laying the facts before the authorities, just to show what ordinary common sense could do without the intervention of the law.
Regina was ushered into the high cool room where the Superintendent sat alone, and the heavy door closed behind her.

He was a large man with close-cropped hair and a short brown beard, and he had kind brown eyes.
Regina came forward a few steps and then stood still, looking at him, and waiting for him to speak.

He was astonished at her beauty, and at once decided that she had a romantic attachment for Marcello, and probably knew all about him.

He leaned back in his chair, and pointed to a seat near him.
"Pray sit down," he said.

"I wish to have a little talk with you before you go upstairs to see Marcello." "How is he ?" asked Regina, eagerly.