For a long time they waited. He did not return.
“We had better go in, Vere. You must eat.”
“I can’t—unless she comes.”
“You must try to eat.”
He spoke to her as to a child.
“And perhaps—Gaspare may be with her, may be speaking with her. Let us go in.”
They passed into the house, and went to the dining-room. The table was laid. The lamp was lit. Giulia stood by the sideboard looking anxious and subdued. She did not even smile when she saw Artois, who was her favorite.
“Where is Gaspare, Giulia?” said Artois.
“Up-stairs, Signore. He came in and ran up-stairs, and he has not come down. Ah!”—she raised her hands—“the evil eye has looked upon this house! When that girl Peppina—”
“Be quiet!” Artois said, sharply.