"Oh no; not in the least," said the latter, quickly regaining his composure. "Pray sit down; the act will begin in a moment."
Giovanni established himself upon the chair immediately behind the Duchessa. He had come to talk, and he anticipated that during the second act he would have an excellent opportunity.
"I hear you enjoyed yourselves yesterday," said Corona, turning her head so as to speak more easily.
"Indeed!" Giovanni answered, and a shade of annoyance crossed his face.
"And who was your informant, Duchessa?"
"Donna Tullia. I met her this morning. She said you amused them all—kept them laughing the whole day."
"What an extraordinary statement!" exclaimed Giovanni. "It shows how one may unconsciously furnish matter for mirth. I do not recollect having talked much to any one. It was a noisy party enough, however."
"Perhaps Donna Tullia spoke ironically," suggested Corona. "Do you like
'Norma'?"
"Oh yes; one opera is as good as another. There goes the curtain."
The act began, and for some minutes no one in the box spoke. Presently there was a burst of orchestral music. Giovanni leaned forward so that his face was close behind Corona. He could speak without being heard by Astrardente.
"Did you receive my letter?" he asked. Corona made an almost imperceptible inclination of her head, but did not speak.