Hermione began to look more natural.
"Has the padrone come back and sent you for us?"
"He did not send me, signora. It was getting dark. I thought it best to come. But I expect he is back. I expect he is waiting for us now."
"You came to guard me?"
She smiled. She liked his watchfulness.
"What's the time?"
She looked at her watch.
"Why, it is nine already! We must hurry. Come, Lucrezia!"
They went quickly down the path.
They did not talk as they went. Gaspare led the way. It was obvious that he was in great haste. Sometimes he forgot that the padrona was not so light-footed as he was, and sprang on so swiftly that she called to him to wait. When at last they came in sight of the arch Hermione and Lucrezia were panting.