"And if you ask me why I wanted you to come, here is the reason.

Now tell me, Teresinella, is it a good reason or not ?" Thereupon San Miniato produced from his waistcoat pocket a little limp parcel wrapped in white tissue paper and laid it in Teresina's hand.

It was heavy, and she guessed that it contained something of gold.
"What is it ?" she asked quickly.

"Am I to give it to the Signorina ?" "To the Signorina!" San Miniato laughed softly again and laid his hand very gently on the girl's arm.

"Yes," he whispered, bending down to her.
"To the Signorina Teresinella, who can have all she asks for if she will only care a little for me." "Heavens, Signor Conte!" cried Teresina.