“No, indeed, you are much stronger since we came here.”

“True, but I must take care not to get ill. Listen, Lucia; I should like to go to Naples, to-day.”

“What for?”

“For Carderelli to examine my chest thoroughly.”

“And leave me alone?”

“For a short time, dear. Sai, just to reassure myself.”

“I shall weary for you, Alberto mio. When do you return?”

“To-day, at half-past six, in time for dinner.”

“Without fail, caro mio?”

“Why, of course! When I arrive at the station, I shall breakfast; then go home for a moment; then to Carderelli, and back again.”