A man like you to descend to me, ugly and sick for ever.

No, do not speak of the other man; I forgot him long ago.

And am I going to remember him now that you give me the charity of your love?
No, Gabriel, you are the greatest and best of men; you are like a god to me." They remained silent a long while with their hands clasped, looking into the darkness of the murmuring garden.

From above still sounded the lament of the genius at his fading life.
Sagrario leant on Gabriel as though her strength were failing, and as if terrified at so much happiness, she wished to take refuge in his arms.
"Why have I known you so late!" she said in a low voice.

"I should have wished to love you in my youth, to be beautiful and healthy only for you, to have the beauty and charm of a great lady to soften the rest of your life.