'It is hard to believe!' Giovanni exclaimed, almost to himself.
The nun moved her head silently from side to side without lifting her face from her arm.
'You can believe me,' Monsignor Saracinesca answered. 'I give you my solemn promise before God, and my word of honour before men, that I will do the utmost in my power to succeed. Do you believe me?'
Giovanni held out his sound hand. The churchman came nearer and took it.
'Will you risk the operation on that?' he asked.
The light of a profound gratitude illuminated the young soldier's tired face, and his fingers pressed Monsignor Saracinesca's spasmodically; but his voice was quiet when he spoke.
'Sister Giovanna——'
The nun looked up suddenly and drew a sharp breath, for her joy was almost agonising.
'Will you kindly go and tell Doctor Pieri that I am ready?'