it, and the smile that lightened his expression as he looked from,
the sea to his fair hostess was of a benignant sweetness.

"Yes"--he continued--"you have realised your vision of loveliness,
have you not? Our friend Giulio Rivardi has carried out all your
plans?"

"Everything is perfect!" said Morgana--"Or will be when it is
finished. The workmen still have things to do."

"All workmen always have things to do!" said Don Aloysius,
tranquilly--"And nothing is ever finished! And you, dear child!--you
are happy?"

She flushed and paled under his deep, steady gaze.

"I--I think so!" she murmured--"I ought to be!"

The priest smiled and after a pause took the chair which the
Marchese Rivardi offered him. The other guests in the loggia looked
at him with interest, fascinated by his grave charm of manner.
Morgana resumed her seat.

"I ought to be happy"--she said--"And of course I am--or I shall
be!"

"'Man never is but always to be blest'!" quoted Colonel Boyd--"And
woman the same! I have been telling this lady, reverend father, that
maybe she will find her 'palazzo' a bit lonesome without some one to
share its pleasures."