"Nothing," he repeated.

"We talked about the crucifix, and Marzio gave a very long explanation of the way it was made.

Besides, as Lucia says, she had told me that everything was settled, and Marzio spoke very quietly." This was literally true.

Marzio's words had been gentle enough.

It was his action that had at first startled Don Paolo, and had afterwards set him thinking and reflecting on the events of those few minutes.