"Why do you go, Laura?" asked Anna, issuing from her reverie.
"There's no use staying. People will be arriving."
"But stay for that very reason. You will help me to endure their visits."
"Oh, that's a task above my strength," said the blonde and beautiful Minerva. "Then, anyhow, it's you they come to see, my dear."
"You'll be married some day yourself," said Anna, laughing.
She was still in a pleasant mood—a reflection of Cesare's gaiety; and then he had promised to come home early.
"Who knows! Good night," and Laura rose to go away.
"But what are you going to do?"
"Read a little; then sleep."
"What are you reading?"