What was her answer ?' 'She is under the influence of her surroundings, of course! What could I expect ?' But the churchman had a right to a more direct reply.
'Did she refuse to listen to your suggestion that she should leave her order ?' he asked.
Giovanni did not like to admit the fact, and paused a moment before answering; but he was too truthful to quibble.
'Yes, she did.' 'What reason did she give for refusing ?' 'None!' 'Did she merely say, "No, I will not" ?' 'You are cross-examining me!' Giovanni fancied that he had a right to be offended.
'No,' protested Monsignor Saracinesca, 'or at least not with the intention of catching you in your own words.

You made an unfair assertion; I have a right to ask a fair question.

If I were not a priest, but simply Ippolito Saracinesca, and if you accused me or my family of unjust dealings, you would be glad to give me an opportunity of defending my position, as man to man.

But because I am a priest you deny me that right.

Are you just ?' 'I did not accuse you personally,' argued the younger man.