"Have you at last heard that your cousin's tea is good?" inquired the latter, who was surprised by Giovanni's coming.
"I am afraid it is cold," said Flavia, looking into the teapot, as though she could discover the temperature by inspection.
"It is no matter," answered Giovanni absently.
He was wondering how he could lead the conversation to the discussion of Madame d'Aranjuez.
"You belong to the swallowers," observed Spicca, lighting a fresh cigarette. "You swallow something, no matter what, and you are satisfied."
"It is the simplest way—one is never disappointed."
"It is a pity one cannot swallow people in the same way," said Flavia with a laugh.
"Most people do," answered Spicca viciously.
"Were you at the Jubilee on the first day?" asked Giovanni, addressing Flavia.
"Of course I was—and you spoke to me."