"Why, I was talking to someone the whole time I was there." "Talking about what, Matteo ?" "The heat, and the music, and the costumes, and the last bit of scandal at the Piazza." "I don't call that talk.

I call it chatter.

And now, Matteo, I shall leave you to your own devices, for I am going to turn in and get a sleep for a few hours." "You look as if you wanted it," Matteo said; "but I think that you stand in even more need of a wash.

You are grimy with dust.

It is just as well that my cousin Giulia did not come on board with her father this morning, for the sight of your face would have given her quite a shock, and would have dissipated any illusions she may have had that you were a good-looking fellow." Francis went off to his cabin with a laugh, and took Matteo's advice as to the wash before he turned in.