The time was approaching at which the
procession was to make its appearance, and Donna. Tullia looked about
for something upon which to open the conversation, glancing from time to
time at her neighbour. It was easy to see that the place and the
surroundings were equally unfamiliar to the newcomer, who looked with
evident interest at the twisted columns of the high altar, at the vast
mosaics in the dome, at the red damask hangings of the nave, at the
Swiss guards, the chamberlains in court dress and at all the
mediaeval-looking, motley figures that moved about within the space kept
open for the coming function.
"It is a wonderful sight," said Donna Tullia in Trench, very softly,
and almost as though speaking to herself.
"Wonderful indeed," answered Maria Consuelo, "especially to a stranger."
"Madame is a stranger, then," observed Donna Tullia with an agreeable
smile.
She looked into her neighbour's face and for the first time realised
that she was a striking person.
"Quite," replied the latter, briefly, and as though not wishing to press
the conversation.
Pages:
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124
125
126
127
128
129
130
131
132