"It is very natural," said Orsino, "and I have no right to put you in danger of the slightest inconvenience. But, after all, why need I appear before the public?"
Del Ferice smiled in the dark.
"True," he answered. "You could establish an anonymous firm, so to say, and the documents would be a secret between you and me and the notary. Of course there are many ways of managing such an affair quietly."
He did not add that the secret could only be kept so long as Orsino was successful. It seemed a pity to damp so much good enthusiasm.
"We will do that, then, if you will show me how. My ambition is not to see my name on a door-plate, but to be really occupied."
"I understand, I understand," said Del Ferice thoughtfully. "I must ask you to give me until to-morrow to consider the matter. It needs a little thought."
"Where can I find you, to hear your decision?"
Del Ferice was silent for a moment.
"I think I once met you late in the afternoon at Madame d'Aranjuez's. We might manage to meet there to-morrow and come away together. Shall we name an hour? Would it suit you?"
"Perfectly," answered Orsino with alacrity.