"I am very sorry, Madame, but there are many reasons which oblige me to disobey you."
Maria Consuelo bit her lip and her eyes gleamed angrily. She glanced at Spicca as though hoping that he would go away with Orsino. But he did not move. It was more and more clear that he had a right to stay if he pleased. Orsino was already bowing before her. Instead of giving her hand she rose quickly and led him towards the door. He opened it and they stood together on the threshold.
"Is this the way you help me?" she asked, almost fiercely, though in a whisper.
"Why do you receive him at all?" he inquired, instead of answering.
"Because I cannot refuse."
"But you might send him away?"
She hesitated, and looked into his eyes.
"Shall I?"
"If you wish to be alone—and if you can. It is no affair of mine."
She turned swiftly, leaving Orsino standing in the door and went to Spicca's side. He had risen when she rose and was standing at the other side of the room, watching.