Prev | Current Page 719 | Next

Hichens, Robert Smythe, 1864-1950

"A Spirit in Prison"


Artois had a firm belief in the right instincts of sensitive but
untutored natures, especially when linked with strong hearts capable
of deep love and long fidelity. He did not think that Gaspare would
easily misread the character or the desires of one whom he knew well.
Hermione might. She was tremendously emotional and impulsive, and
might be carried away into error. But there was a steadiness in
Gaspare which was impressive, which could not be ignored.
Artois wondered very much what Gaspare had thought.
There was a tap at the door, and Gaspare came in, holding his soft hat
in his hand, and looking tragic and very hot and tired.
"Oh, Gaspare!" said Artois, coming in from the balcony, "they have
come back."
"Lo so, Signore."
"And they are sleeping here for the night."
"Si, Signore."
Gaspare looked at him as if inquiring something of him.
"Sit down a minute," said Artois, "and have something to drink. You
must spend the night here, too. The porter will give you a bed.


Pages:
707 708 709 710 711 712 713 714 715 716 717 718 719 720 721 722 723 724 725 726 727 728 729 730 731