‘Then what was the reason, since you know?’ I found it difficult to keep the tremor out of my voice.
In the same quiet tone, he said, ‘I think you were scared.’
‘Scared?’ I tried to laugh it off, but it didn’t sound right and I let it trail away uncertainly.
‘Suppose you tell me,what scared you so badly that you sent a cable to your firm saying you were under doctor’s orders to take a rest?’
I didn’t say anything and after a moment he said, ‘Where does that girl come into it?’
‘How do you mean?’ I asked.
She comes into it somewhere. What’s her name now?’
‘Zina Valle. She’s a contessa.’
‘Valle’s wife? I wonder.’ He stroked his chin. ‘Where did you meet her?’
‘At Sismondi’s flat.’