"Let us make a couple of steps," he said at last.
Both men moved slowly on for a few seconds, and then stopped again.

In Italy "a couple of steps" is taken literally.
"Let us see," said Carnesecchi.

"Let us look at things as they are.

In these days there are many excellent opportunities for investing money." "Hum!" grunted Marzio, pulling a long face and looking up under his eyebrows.

"I know that is your opinion, Sor Gasparo.