And there at her place stood an immaculate individual in an evening coat and a white tie, ready and anxious to do her bidding.

She surveyed the preparations with more satisfaction than she generally showed at anything.

Then all at once her face fell.
"Good heavens, San Miniato carissimo," she cried, "you have forgotten the red pepper! It is all over! I shall eat nothing! I shall die in this place!" "Pardon me, dearest Marchesa, I know your tastes.

There is red pepper and also Tabasco on the table.

Observe--here and here." The Marchesa's brow cleared.
"Forgive me, dear friend," she said.