When he paused the two looked at each other and after a while they laughed.
'The disguise is complete,' Ugo said.

'But are you going to call on the Minister in those clothes?
If you are seen near the magazine in that condition you will be warned off and I shall have to explain who you are.' 'I suppose I could get into a uniform of yours, since I have grown thin,' Giovanni answered.

'We are the same height, I remember, and as I am in the artillery no one can find fault with me for wearing the uniform of another regiment than my own, in an emergency.

It will be better than presenting myself before the Minister in these rags! I suppose you have got your captaincy by this time ?' 'Six months ago!' They talked on, and Ugo explained that he was to be taken to the hospital of the White Sisters soon after eight o'clock.
'I shall go with you,' Giovanni answered, 'and see you installed in your room.

The Minister does not want me till twelve o'clock.' They agreed to tell Pica, when he returned, that Giovanni was an artillery officer and a relative who had just arrived from a long journey without any luggage.