She had also been asked to say that his papers had been entrusted to the bishop of the city.

Benedetto made a gesture of approval which might also serve to close the interview.

Noemi did not move.
"I have not yet finished," she said, and hastened to add: "I have a Catholic friend--I myself am not a Catholic, I am a Protestant--who has lost her faith in God.

She has been advised to devote herself to deeds of charity.

She lives with her brother, who is very hostile to all religions.