PIKE
[in his mildest tone]
I don't want to seem rough with you, but I meant what I said.
HAWCASTLE
Imagining I did not mean that question—
PIKE
Then it's all right.
HAWCASTLE
Late this afternoon I developed a great anxiety concerning the penalty prescribed by Italian law for those unfortunate and impulsive individuals who connive at the escape or concealment—
[he speaks with significant emphasis and a glance at the hotel, where lights begin to appear in the windows]