“You are right, dear. But really, without exaggeration, life is not beautiful. Have you ever thought of the future; of the vague, dread future, that is so close upon us?”
“Sometimes.”
“And you have not feared?”
“I don’t know.”
“The future is all fear, Caterina.... Do you know what you will do with your life?”
“I know.”
“Who has told it you, thoughtless child? Who has read the riddle of the future?”
“My aunt intends me to marry Andrea Lieti.”
“Shall you obey?”
“Yes.”