"And we'll get Madre to come too."

"Oh yes."

Vere got up and they went into the house. As they came out upon the
terrace Hermione took up her embroidery, and Gaspare, who was standing
beside her, picked up the tray with the coffee-cups and went off with
it towards the kitchen.

"Well, Vere?"

"Madre, we are going out a little way in the boat, and we want you to
come with us."

"Where are you going?"

"To see the fishermen, just beyond the grotto of Virgilio. You will
come?"

"Do come, my friend," added Artois.

But Hermione sat still.

"I'm a little tired to-night," she answered. "I think I would rather
stay quietly here. You won't be long, will you?"

"Oh no, Madre. Only a few minutes. But, really, won't you?" Vere laid
her hand on her mother's. "It's so lovely on the sea to-night."