"What has become of the old silver cup," Marcello asked, "and all the little things that used to be about?"
"We took them away with us when we let the apartment, and they are not unpacked yet, though we have been here two months."
"Two months?"
"Yes. I was wondering whether you were ever coming to see us again!"
"Were you? I fancied that you would not care very much to see me now."
Aurora said nothing to this, and they both looked at the fire for some time. The gentle sound of the little flames was cheerful, and gave them both the impression of a third person, talking quietly.
"I should not have come to-day," Marcello said at last, "except that something has happened."
"Nothing bad, I hope!" Aurora looked up with a sudden anxiety that surprised him.
"Bad? No. At least, I think not. Why are you startled?"
"I have had a headache," Aurora explained. "I am a little nervous, I fancy. What is it that has happened?"