He must give me Lucia at once." "I am afraid that as a basis of negotiations that plan leaves much to be desired," replied Don Paolo, in a meditative tone.

"Of course, we are all determined that you shall marry her in the end; but unless Providence is pleased to change Marzio's state of mind, you may have to wait until she is of age.

He will never consent at present." "In that case I had better go and take my things away from his house," returned the apprentice.

"And say good-bye to Lucia--for a day or two," he added in a low voice.
"Of course, if you will not agree to be conciliatory it is of no use for you to come with me," said Don Paolo rather sadly.

"Dear me! Here comes Maria Luisa with Suntarella!" "Ah, dear Paolo, dear Paolo!" cried the stout lady, puffing up the stairs with the old woman close behind her.