“Well, how goes the lawsuit?” inquired Caterina at luncheon.

“Badly.”

“Why? Does our neighbour decline any compromise?”

“He does. He is obstinate; says the right is on his side.”

“But what is the lawyer doing?”

“What can he do? He is moving heaven and earth, like any other lawyer; or pretending to do so.”

“Why don’t you eat?”

“I am not very hungry; out of sorts.”

“After luncheon you ought to take a nap.”

“What an idea! I’ve got to go out again.”