"Why do you wish to see us together?" he asked.
"Because I am foolish enough to think sometimes that you suit one another, and might love one another."
Probably nothing which Spicca could have said could have surprised Orsino more than such a plain statement. He grew suspicious at once, but Spicca's look was that of a man in earnest.
"I do not think I understand you," answered Orsino. "But I think you are touching a subject which is better left alone."
"I think not," returned Spicca unmoved.
"Then let us agree to differ," said Orsino a little more warmly.
"We cannot do that. I am in a position to make you agree with me, and I will. I am responsible for that lady's happiness. I am responsible before God and man."
Something in the words made a deep impression upon Orsino. He had never heard Spicca use anything approaching to solemn language before. He knew at least one part of the meaning which showed Spicca's remorse for having killed Aranjuez, and he knew that the old man meant what he said, and meant it from his heart.
"Do you understand me now?" asked Spicca, slowly inhaling the smoke of his cigarette.
"Not altogether. If you desire the happiness of Madame d'Aranjuez why do you wish us to fall in love with each other? It strikes me that—" he stopped.