He tried to temporize.
"It depends upon what you understand by an engagement," he said.

"With us, here in Naples, the betrothal means the signing of the marriage contract.

Now, the contract has not even been discussed.

I think that my brother's announcement was premature, though it was perhaps justifiable, as he wished to discourage any false expectations on the part of Don Gianluca." "I am not a diplomatist," answered the Sicilian.

"The statement was categorical--that you were betrothed to Donna Veronica.