“Speak then,” said Madame, “you have a reason.” She seemed mistrustful of him.
But he turned aside his face, and refused to speak, sitting as if he were unaware of Madame’s presence.
“Oh well,” said Madame. “I shall be there, Signorino.”
She spoke with a half-playful threat. Ciccio curled his lip.
“You do not know him yet,” she said, turning to Alvina.
“I know that,” said Alvina, offended. Then she added: “Wouldn’t you like to take off your hat?”
“If you truly wish me to stay,” said Madame.
“Yes, please do. And will you hang your coat in the hall?” she said to Ciccio.
“Oh!” said Madame roughly. “He will not stay to eat. He will go out to somewhere.”
Alvina looked at him.