He began to laugh.
"What enthusiasm! But that's enough; I will see you at work. Good-by, Tullio."
He went out with his light and free step, for he was always stimulated by the precept inscribed on the sun-dial: Hora est benefaciendi.
XIII.
It was ten o'clock when I left my room. On that April morning, the bright light that inundated the Badiola by the open windows and balconies made me timid. How could I wear my mask in such a light?
Before entering Juliana's apartment, I wished to see my mother.
"You rose late," she said, on seeing me. "How are you?"
"Very well."
"You are pale."
"I think I had a little fever in the night. But it is gone now."