The latter had got hold of a thread. Since the Contessa was surprised to see Folco, she could not possibly have already let him know that she was in Pontresina.
"I came as soon as I knew that you were here," said Corbario quickly.
Marcello heard the words, though he was at that moment shaking hands with Aurora, and their eyes had met. She was perfectly calm and collected, none the worse for her adventure in the morning, and considerably the wiser.
"Will you come in?" asked the Contessa, leading the way, as if expecting both men to follow.
Corbario went at once. Marcello hesitated, and flushed a little, and Aurora seemed to be waiting for him.
"Shall I come, too?" he asked.
"Just as you please," she answered. "My mother will think it strange if you don't."
Marcello bent his head, and the two followed the others towards the stairs at a little distance.
"Did your mother send word to Folco that you were here?" asked Marcello quickly, in a low tone.
"Not that I know. Why?"