The fact was that a whole fifth of the Sanvianos' income was spent on
Gheta's clothes; and this left only the most meager provision for
Lavinia. But this, the latter felt, was just--still in the convent, she
required comparatively little personal adornment; while the other's
beauty demanded a worthy emphasis. Later Lavinia would have tulle and
silver lace. She wished, however, that Gheta would get married; for
Lavinia knew that even if she came home she would be held back until
the older sister was settled. It was her opinion that Gheta was very
silly to show such indifference to Cesare Orsi.... Suddenly she longed
to have men--not fat and good-natured like the Neapolitan banker, but
austere and romantic--in love with her. She clasped her hands to her
fine young breast and a delicate color stained her cheeks. She stood
very straight and her breathing quickened through parted lips.
She was disturbed by the echo of a voice from the cool depths of the
house, and turned at approaching footfalls. The room was so high and
large that its stiff gilt and brocade furnishing appeared
insignificant. Three long windows faced the Lungarno, but two were
screened with green slatted blinds and heavily draped, and the light
within was silvery and illusive. A small man in correct English
clothes, with a pointed bald head and a heavy nose, entered
impulsively.
"It's Bembo," Lavinia announced flatly.
"Of course it's Bembo," he echoed vivaciously.
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