Behind her came Teresina, the maid, necessary at every minute for the Marchesa's comfort, her pink young cheeks flushed with pleasure and her eyes sparkling with anticipation, fastening on her hat as she walked.
"I was never so happy in my life," laughed Beatrice.

"And to think that you have really captured mamma in spite of herself! Oh, mamma, you will enjoy it so much! I promise you shall.

There is iced champagne, and the foot warmer and the marrons glaces and the lamp and everything you like--and quails stuffed with truffles, besides.

Now do be happy and let us enjoy ourselves!" "But where are all these things ?" asked the Marchesa.

"I shall believe when I see." "Everything is at Tragara already," answered Beatrice tripping down the stairs beside her mother's chair.