rtain that I worship you, for in order to adore
wholeheartedly, the idolater must believe his idol to be perfect. Now,
your nails are of an ugly shape, like that of little fans; your mouth
is too large; and I have long ago perceived that you are a trifle lame
in spite of your constant care to conceal the fact. I do not admire
these faults, for faults they are undoubtedly. Then, too, I know you
are vain and self-seeking, and look forward contentedly to the time
when your father will transfer his ownership of such physical
attractions as heaven gave you to that nobleman who offers the highest
price for them. It is true you have no choice in the matter, but you
will participate in a monstrous bargain, and I would prefer to have you
exhibit distaste for it." And with that he returned composedly to
inspection of his pearls.

"And to what end, Guido?" It was the first time Graciosa had
completely waived the reticence of a superior caste. You saw that the
child's parted lips were tremulous, and you divined her childish fits
of dreading that glittering, inevitable court-life shared with an
unimaginable husband.

But Guido only grumbled whimsically. "I am afraid that men do not
always love according to the strict laws of logic. I desire your
happiness above all things; yet to see you so abysmally untroubled by
anything that troubles me is another matter."

"But I am not untroubled, Guido----" she began swiftly. Graciosa broke
off in speech, shrugged, flashed a smile at him. "For I cannot fathom
you, Ser Guido, and that troubles me. Yes, I am very fond of you, and
yet I do not trust you. You tell me you love me greatly. It pleases
me to have you say this. You perceive I am very candid this morning,
Messer Guido. Yes, it pleases me, and I know that for the sake of
seeing me you daily endanger your life, for if my father heard of our
meetings he would have you killed. You would not incur such
hare-brained risks unless you cared very greatly; and yet, somehow, I
do not believe it is altogether for me you care."

Then Guido was in train to protest an all-mastering and entirely candid
devotion, but he was interrupted.

"Most women have these awkward intuitions," spoke a melodious voice,
and turning, Graciosa met the eyes of the intruder. This magnificent
young man had a proud and bloodless face which contrasted sharply with
his painted lips and cheeks. In the contour of his protruding mouth
showed plainly his