The Padrone put his book very carefully down between Hermione and Artois, and left them with a murmured apology that he had to look after another party of guests which had just come into the restaurant.
“I thought you would be glad to get rid of those young things for a minute,” said Hermione, in explanation of what she had done.
Artois did not reply, but turned over the leaves of the book mechanically.
“Oh, here is Tolstoy’s signature,” he said, stopping.
Hermione drew her chair nearer.
“What a clear handwriting!” she said.
“Yes, isn’t it? ‘Vedi Napoli e poi mori.’”
“Where are you going to write?”
He was looking towards the outer room of the restaurant which led onto the terrace.
He turned the leaves.