Observe, I cannot say
that I think it likely that, if you do so, you will pass this night
under the roof of the Palazzo Castelmare; but, if you are determined
to remain in the city, I think that is the best thing you can do."
"That, then, I will do," returned the Marchese. "I thank you, Signor
Fortini, for the advice which I can follow, and not less for that
which I cannot follow. Good-evening."
"Good-evening, Signor Marchese. I hope it may be better with you
than I fear. And, of course, if you need me, as you will, you will
summon me, and I will not fail to be with you within a few minutes
of your call."
"Thanks, Signor Fortini. Addio."
"One word more, Signor Marchese, before you go. When you uncovered
the face of the woman lying dead yonder you exclaimed, `Paolina!'
What was the thought that led you to do so? You could not have
mistaken the identity? Of course, you know that I question you only
in your own interest?"
"Did I say `Paolina?' replied the Marchese, with an apparent effort
at recollecting himself.
"You did. On seeing the face you exclaimed, `Paolina mia!'--so much
so, that I felt no doubt that it was this Paolina who lay dead
there. What was it moved you to that exclamation?"
"I don't know. I can't tell. I was very anxious about Paolina. The
thought of her was uppermost in my mind, I suppose.
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