“No, not Signor Ou-ill, but Signor Will.”

“Signor W-W-Will.”

“Yes, that is it: Will.”

“Well, Signor W-Will,” she said coquettishly—“I have to prepare my mouth for it, or I cannot say it—I cannot stay with you. I have given my message, and must go back to Her Majesty.”

“Oh, Donna Rusidda!” he began reproachfully.

“Oh, what, Signor W-Will?”

“Are you not waiting for some answer from My Lady?”

“Perhaps. Have you a message which you wish the Signora Hamilton to give to me?”

“None that I would not rather give myself.”

“But I cannot take messages from a midshipman.”