The Cardinal smiled and lifted his hand, as if to an impetuous child.
"My dear fellow——"
Monsignor turned to the other. He felt cool and positive, as if a breeze had fanned away his excitement.
"You understand, your Eminence, do you not? It is impossible that the Cardinal should go alone. I am his secretary. I can arrange everything with . . . with the Rector of the English College here, if there is no one else. That is right, is it not, your Eminence?"
The Italian hesitated.
"Prince Otteone went alone——" he began.
"Exactly. And there were no witnesses. That must not happen again."
There was an obvious answer, but no one made it. Cardinal
Bellairs stood up, lifting himself with his stick.
"It is very good of you," he said quietly. "I understand why you make the offer. But it is impossible. Monsignor, will you talk with His Eminence a little? There are one or two things he wishes to tell you. I have to see the Holy Father, but I will be with you again soon."
The priest stood up too.