Aunt Grathia wished further to know the result of Anania's disclosures to his betrothed.
"If she cares for you she'll be pleased by your good action," she said consolingly. "No, no, she won't give you up because you can't disown your mother. Ah! true love cares nothing for the prejudices of the world. I loved my husband madly when all the world was against him."
"We shall see," said Anania. "I'll write to you."
"For pity's sake, jewel of gold, don't write! I can't read, and I don't want to make your affairs public property."
"Well then——"
"Send me a token. If she sticks to you, send the rezetta wrapped in a white handkerchief. If you lose her, send it in a coloured handkerchief."
He promised.
"And when will you come back yourself?"
"I don't know. Soon, certainly. As soon as I have settled my affairs."
He left without seeing Olì again, for the poor thing had at last dropped asleep. He was in deep dejection. The journey seemed eternal, though he had no wish to arrive at his destination. Still, he was drawn by a slender thread of hope.