One day, unexpectedly, Cesare returned. From his wife's pallor, from her trembling, he understood how much he had been loved during his absence. He was very kind to her, very gallant, very tender. He embraced her and kissed her many times, effusively, and told her that she was far lovelier than the ladies of France and Switzerland. He was in the best of good humours; and she, laughing with tears in her eyes, and holding his hand as she stood beside him, realised anew how single and absolute was her love for him.
Two or three times Cesare asked, "And Laura?"
"She's very well. She'll be coming soon."
"You haven't found her a husband?"
"She doesn't want one."
"That's what all girls say."
"Laura is obstinate. She really doesn't want one. People even think she would like to become a nun."
"Nonsense."
"The strange thing is that once when I asked her if it was true, she answered no."