'Ah! it's you, my dear boy! How glad I am to see you.'
The youth bent humbly and kissed his hand.
The host seated himself on the sofa, at the same time pointing to a chair for Brühl, who sat down, still holding his hat.
'Ecco! Ecco!' whispered the old man. 'You think you bring me news, but I already know about it. I am truly delighted. You see Providence rewards, God helps those who worship Him.'
'I am thankful to Him,' said Brühl quietly.
'Remain faithful to the creed to which you have opened your heart, and you shall see.' He raised his hand. 'You shall go far, far. I am telling you that. I am poor and humble, but I am the Lord's servant.'
He looked at the humble page, and having accomplished his pious duty, added joyfully:
'Have you been to the opera? How did Celesta sing? Did the King look at her? Was the Prince there?'
Padre Guarini was the name of the man to whom Brühl paid this visit; he was the Prince's confessor, confidant of the Princess, spiritual father of the young count, but he seemed to care as much about the opera as about the conversion of the young man sitting before him.
He asked about the tenor, the orchestra, the audience, and at length if the page went behind the stage.