In the balcony La Signorina reposed in a steamer chair
In the balcony La Signorina reposed in a steamer chair, gazing seaward. The awning cast a warm glow as of gold upon her face and hair, a transparent shadow. She was at this moment the most precious thing upon which the eye may look—a wholly beautiful woman. Kitty Killigrew, standing in the casement window, stared at her silently, not without some envy, not without some awe. What was going on behind those dreamy eyes? Only once did the woman in the chair move, but this movement was tense with passion: she clenched her hands and struck them roughly on the arms of the chair. Immediately she relaxed, as if realizing how futile such emotion was. Kitty stirred and came out. She sat in the neighboring chair.
"Hilda?" said Kitty.
"Yes, Kitty."
"Who and what are you?" Kitty asked bravely.
La Signorina's eyes wandered till they met Kitty's. There was neither anger nor surprise in the glance, only deliberation.