Father Lorenza, the confessor of both the Boccanera ladies, was to be present at the interview, for the idea of the divorce was in reality his own.

He had urged the two women to it in his eagerness to sever the bond which the patriotic priest Pisoni had tied full of such fine illusions.

Benedetta became quite animated as she explained the reasons of her hopefulness.

"Monsignor Nani can do everything," she said, "and I am very happy that my affair should be in his hands.

You must be reasonable also, my friend; do as you are requested.