Her look was far away. Of a sudden she turned to Francesco.

"Will you remain at Naples?"

He gave a shrug.

"Days—weeks—who can tell? A Ghibelline victory may turn the tide."

"I have something to say to you," she said, her face very close to his. "I have long wished to say it: beware of Raniero!"

"He caught her to him with all the old-time love"

"I have done him no wrong!"

She made a gesture as one throwing up a libation.

"Fonté Gaia!"