'Do not be angry, signorina,' answered the woman. 'It is a young gentleman from Messina, who has a parcel for you in his hands and begs that you will kindly receive it yourself.'
'A parcel from Messina? Well—' Aliandra hesitated, but her curiosity was roused. 'Tell him that I will come down immediately,' she concluded.
A few minutes later she descended the stairs, having plunged her face into cold water and done her best to remove the traces of her tears. She entered the front room and met a girlish-looking youth with close and curling brown hair, and extremely well dressed in light grey. A rather delicate hand held out a parcel to her, as he bowed respectfully.
'I was commissioned to hand you this parcel, signorina,' said the Moscio. 'It is from one of your greatest admirers.'
'From whom is it?' she asked quickly, as she took the heavy little package.
'That is your friend's secret. He only begs that you will open it when you are alone. It contains a little surprise for you. I thank you for your kindness in receiving me, signorina. Good morning.'
He bowed and moved quickly towards the door.
'But you, signore—what is your name? I am infinitely obliged—'
'My name is Angelo Laria, signorina. Good morning.'