"It is too much to ask of a stranger."
"Nothing is too much to ask," she said quietly. In her own room she wrote a note to Pietro.
With many apologies, she explained to him that her husband was so delighted with Ghisleri's friend, that she believed it might make a difference if, as a doctor—since he was one—the latter would be willing to see him once and give his opinion.
Pietro smiled when he read the note. On the following day the great man went again to the Tempietto, and with many protestations of incompetence did as he was requested, assuring Lady Herbert that it was only in deference to her wishes that he did so.
"You are not consumptive—in the least, and you may even become strong," he said, after a very long and thorough examination. "That, at least," he added, "is my humble opinion."
Arden's face brightened suddenly. But Laura and Ghisleri remained alone together for a moment afterwards, while the doctor was already putting on his coat.
"After all," said Laura, despondently, "it was to please Herbert. The man says that his opinion is not worth very much."
"He is the greatest living authority on the subject," answered Ghisleri. "You may safely take his opinion."
Laura's face expressed her surprise, and at the same time, an unspeakable relief.
"Are you sure?" she asked, in trembling tones.