She glanced toward the gate, where Fidilini was visible, plainly determined not to come in.

Constance laughed expectantly and turned back to the water, her eyes intent on the fishing-smacks that were putting out from the little _marino_.

The sounds of coercion increased; a command floated down the driveway in the English tongue.

It sounded like: 'You twist his tail, Beppo, while I pull.' Apparently it was understood in spite of Beppo's slight knowledge of the language.

An eloquent silence followed; then an outraged grunt on the part of Fidilini, and the cavalcade advanced with a rush to the kitchen door.