He saw at a glance that she had brought him out
to ask the question.
"The master was giving me certain orders," he said.
"He rarely makes such long speeches when he gives orders," observed the
girl.
"His instructions were very particular."
"Will you not tell me what they were?"
Zorzi turned slowly from her and let the long branch rest on the bush
while he began to drive a nail into the wall. Marietta watched him.
"Why do you not answer me?" she asked.
"Because I cannot," he said briefly.
"Because you will not, you mean."
"As you choose." Zorzi went on striking the nail.
"I am sorry," answered the young girl. "I really wish to know very much.
Besides, if you will tell me, I will give you something."
Zorzi turned upon her suddenly with angry eyes.
"If money could buy your father's secrets from me, I should be a rich
man by this time."
"I think I know as much of my father's secrets as you do," answered
Marietta more coldly, "and I did not mean to offer you money."
"What then?" But as he asked the question Zorzi turned away again and
began to fasten the branch.
Marietta did not answer at once, but she idly picked a rose from the
bush and put it to her lips to breathe in its freshness.
"Why should you think that I meant to insult you?" she asked gently.
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