The occupants of the white
boat were known to the novelist. They did live somewhere near the
Antico Giuseppone. And certainly Artois had no desire to bring about
his--the Marchesino's--acquaintance with them.
That this was so, neither surprised nor seriously vexed the
Marchesino. He knew a good deal of his friend's character, knew that
Artois, despite his geniality and friendliness, was often reserved--
even with him. During their short intimacy he had certainly told
Artois a great deal more about his affairs with women than had been
told to him in return. This fact was borne in upon him now. But he did
not feel angry. A careless good-nature was an essential part of his
character. He did not feel angry at his friend's secrecy, but he did
feel mischievous. His lively desire to know the girl with "the perfect
little nose" was backed up now by another desire--to teach "Caro
Emilio" that it was better to meet complete frankness with complete
frankness.
He had strolled out of his friend's room pensively, acting the
melancholy youth who had lost all hope of succeeding in his desire;
but directly the door was shut his manner changed.
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