"They have asked her--" "Who told you so ?" inquired Taquisara, incredulously.

"And if any one has told you, why should you believe it?
There are several millions on the one side, which Macomer wishes to possess, and there can be nothing on the other but the word of one of the interested persons.

You have met her in the world and exchanged a few words--that has been all--" "I have spoken with her five times," said Gianluca, thoughtfully.
"Have you counted ?" Taquisara smiled.

"Very good--five times--seventeen, if you like--you, sitting on the edge of your chair and opening your eyes wide to see her profile while she was looking at her aunt--you, saying that it was a fine day, or that Tamagno was a great singer; and she, saying 'yes' to everything.

And you love her.