"Maddalena was here in the town with her relations. And they say Salvatore is at Messina. This morning Maddalena went home. She was crying. Every one saw her crying for the signore."
"That is very natural if she knew him."
"Oh yes, signore, she knew him. Why, they were all at the fair of San Felice together only the day before."
"Then, of course, she would cry."
"Si, signore."
The man put his hand on the door.
"If the signora wishes to see me at any time I am here," said Artois. "But, of course, I shall not disturb her. But if I can do anything to help her—about the funeral, for instance—"
"The signora is giving all the directions now. The poor signore is to be buried in the high part of the Campo Santo by the wall. Those who are not Catholics are buried there, and the poor signore was not a Catholic. What a pity!"
"Thank you, Ferdinando."
The man went out slowly, as if he were reluctant to stop the conversation.