V.“You had better go to bed, Signora,” said Giulietta, pityingly; “you haven’t even undressed.”
“I was not sleepy,” replied Caterina, simply.
“Will you breakfast?”
“No.”
“At least, I may bring you your coffee?”
“Bring me the coffee.”
The tears had ceased to flow, but her eyes burned painfully. She passed into her dressing-room and began to bathe them with cold water. She dipped her whole head into the basin, and felt refreshed. When Giulietta entered with the coffee she found her still bathing her head.
“The maid has come from Casa Sanna. The poor gentleman wandered all night; this morning, saving your presence, he spat blood again. The maid says it is a heartrending sight. Madonna mia, how did this dreadful thing happen?”
Caterina raised her cold, severe eyes, and looked at her. G
