The young men separated; Amedi and his relatives turning their steps toward the palace of the former, while Buondlemonte and Guiseppo continued their walk alone.
——
CHAPTER II.
“Buondlemonte, thou art no happy bridegroom,” Guiseppo said, after they had proceeded for some time in silence.
Buondlemonte sighed, but made no reply.
“Thou dost not love Amedi’s sister,” Guiseppo observed, in a half interrogative tone.
“ ’Twas a compact between parents, and not a union of lovers that was intended,” Buondlemonte replied bitterly.
“Still thou dost not love her—this marriage promises thee no happiness.”
Buondlemonte paused a moment, and then said,
“I think, Guiseppo, thou art my friend, and I may trust thee.”