Nino's nature rose up in his throat, and bade him console her.

But between him and her was a fair, bright image that forbade him to move hand or foot.
"Signora," he said, with all the calm he could command, "if I were conscious of having by word or deed of mine given you cause to speak thus, I would humbly implore your forgiveness.

But my heart does not accuse me.

I beg you to allow me to take leave of you.

I will go away, and you shall have no further cause to think of me." He moved again, and lifted the curtain.