Your brother and the countess feel quite sure of the fact, as though it had already taken place, but for some reason which does not concern me, you yourself are not so certain of the result.

To be plain, there is still a possibility that the marriage may not take place.

I need not tell you that in speaking to Gianluca I shall be very careful not to raise any false hopes in his mind.

But I am exceedingly indebted to you for being so honourably frank with me." Taquisara repressed a smile at his own words as he rose from his seat, for he was very far from wishing to offend Bosio.

The latter rose, too, and looked at him with a dazed, uncertain expression, like a man not quite sure of being in his senses.