Roderick declared that he must get at work and requested Christina to take her usual position, and Mrs.Light proposed to her visitor that they should adjourn to her boudoir.

This was a small room, hardly more spacious than an alcove, opening out of the drawing-room and having no other issue.

Here, as they entered, on a divan near the door, Rowland perceived the Cavaliere Giacosa, with his arms folded, his head dropped upon his breast, and his eyes closed.
"Sleeping at his post!" said Rowland with a kindly laugh.
"That 's a punishable offense," rejoined Mrs.Light, sharply.

She was on the point of calling him, in the same tone, when he suddenly opened his eyes, stared a moment, and then rose with a smile and a bow.
"Excuse me, dear lady," he said, "I was overcome by the--the great heat." "Nonsense, Cavaliere!" cried the lady, "you know we are perishing here with the cold! You had better go and cool yourself in one of the other rooms." "I obey, dear lady," said the Cavaliere; and with another smile and bow to Rowland he departed, walking very discreetly on his toes.

Rowland out-stayed him but a short time, for he was not fond of Mrs.Light, and he found nothing very inspiring in her frank intimation that if he chose, he might become a favorite.