The Selvas charged di Leyni to inform the Senator that Benedetto's friends would find him another place of refuge, but only on condition that the physician in attendance gave a written permission to remove him.

While Giovanni was talking, a noisy _allegro_ burst from the piano in the next room, an _allegro_ all sobs and cries.
He ceased speaking, not wishing to raise his voice too high, and let the rush of sad music pass.

And sad was the word which his eyes and the young man's eyes uttered to each other, while their lips were silent.
Di Leyni had no time to lose, and so took his leave.

He disliked going alone; he could have wished to appear before the Senator with some one of Benedetto's friends whose presence would intimidate him a little, for his conduct was inexplicable.
Giovanni muttered something about the vice-presidency of the Senate, to which that old man aspired, and which he would not obtain.

It is a bitter grief to discover such sordid motives where they are least expected! Maria rose and offered to accompany di Leyni.
"You will stay ?" Jeanne asked Giovanni anxiously.