It was the difference between truth and hearsay, as San Miniato had said once that night.

There was no mistaking the one for the other.
Poor Ruggiero! that was why he was growing pale and thin.

That was why his arm trembled when he helped her into the boat.

She leaned against the rock and wondered what it all meant, whether there were really any justice in heaven or any happiness on earth.

But she would not marry San Miniato, now, for she had given no promise.