"Don't say that, Monsignor.... Ah, Donna Roma!"
Roma, who had entered the room, replied with reserve and dignity.
"Allow me, Donna Roma, to present Monsignor Mario of the Vatican," said the Baron.
"It is unnecessary," said Roma. "I met the Monsignor yesterday morning."
The young ecclesiastic was overwhelmed with confusion.
"My respectful reverence to his Holiness," said the Baron, smiling, "and pray tell him that the Government will do its duty to the country and to the civilised world, and count on the support of the Pope."
Monsignor Mario left the room without a word.
VIII
The Baron pushed out an easy-chair for Roma and twisted his own to face it.
"How are you, my child?"