Paulo
Suspect! You! Clear water cannot hide the reflections in it. (Expression of comprehension dawns on his face.) Even if your love guided you amiss, I—I could never think, and far less use—that ugly word! Lucia! Little Child! You tremble—— (Starts forward.)
[Enter Old Woman, flustered. Lucia’s hand flies to her heart.
Woman
Signor! Signora! A great gentleman comes for you. His gondola is already at the steps. I heard him give orders to wait. I ran on to warn you.
Lucia
(Cry.) Already!
Paulo
(Half incredulous still.) Great gentleman! (Looking at Lucia.) Asking for—us!
[Lucia silent, face in hands.