She did not know that behind his face of frightened stupor his mind was working cunningly, following up the idea that had occurred to him.
She began to think him mad.

But though she held him in distaste, she had no fear of him; and even when he closed the door with a cringing air, and a look that implored indulgence, she held her ground.

"Only, you need not close the door," she said coldly.

"There is no one in the house except my mother." "Messer Basterga ?" "He has gone out.

Is it of him," in sudden enlightenment, "that you are afraid ?" He nodded sullenly.