His cap was drawn down over his
eyes. He was not conscious of any being in the world but Sulpizia.
"Suddenly from the convent tower the sound of the vesper bell trembled in
throbbing music over the water. It seemed to ring every soul to prayer. My
brother did not move. He still gazed intently at the island, and the tears
stole from his eyes. Luigi crossed himself. We did the same, and murmured
an Ave Maria.
"'Heavens! Camillo!' cried my mother, suddenly. He started, and was so
near that there was a mutual recognition. In a moment the gondolas were
side by side, and the greetings of a brother and sisters and mother long
parted, followed. Meanwhile, Camillo's companion remained silent, having
respectfully removed his hat, and looking as if he felt his presence to
be profane at such a moment. But my brother turned, and taking him by the
hand, said:
"'Dear mother, I might well have stayed away from you twice as long, could
I have hoped to find a friend like this.'
"His companion smiled at the generosity of his introduction. He greeted us
all cordially and cheerfully, and the light fading rapidly, we rowed on in
the early starlight. The gondolas slid side by side, and there was a
constant hum of talk.
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