Regina heard the long breath Corbario drew, and saw his body straighten, as if relieved from a great burden.

He stood beside the bed, and put out his hand to take Marcello's.
"Do you know me ?" he asked; but even then his voice was unsteady.
Instead of answering, Marcello turned away to Regina.
"You promised that they should not tease me any more," he said querulously.

"Make them go away! I want to sleep." Regina came to his side at once, and faced the two men across the bed.
"What is all this for ?" she asked, with a little indignation.

"You know that he cannot remember you, even if he ever saw you before.

Cannot you leave him in peace?
Come back after the operation.