37Simonetta became very ill after having given birth. Everyone is desperate, even the Magnificent who sent his personal doctor to her. The fever has gone down now but they whisper that her body has grown too weak and it is difficult to think she could survive. When the news is made official that there is no more hope for her, I propose to the Master to visit her but he does not want to do anything. So, I pluck up the necessary courage and go on my own.
I find her bloodless, her face as white as the lace pillow on which her head is resting. Her hair is in two plaits and she looks like a child. The scent of her rose and spice perfume lingers in the air. When she sees me, her face brightens for a brief instant. Then, disappointed, she says:
«He has not come». Her eyes fill with tears but ar
