As it was she only felt sharp pain, each time that Nella touched the foot.

Pasquale looked on, helpless but approving.
Zorzi groaned, then opened his eyes and moved one hand.

Nella had almost finished.
"If only he can be kept quiet a few moments longer," she said, "it will be well done." Zorzi writhed in pain, only half conscious yet.

Marietta left Nella to put on the last bandages, and came and looked down into his face, taking one of his hands in hers.

He recognised her, and stared in wild surprise.
"You must try and not move," she said softly.