Oh, don't
trouble about me. You know you said you couldn't have anything to do
with me. Are you staying in Venice?"
"I came in from Treviso for a day or two, to see a friend--"
"You had better not stay," said Kitty, hastily. "Maman is here. At
least, if you don't want to run across her."
Lady Alice let go her hold.
"I shall go home to-morrow morning."
They moved on a few steps in silence, then Alice paused. Kitty's
delicate face and cloud of hair made a pale, luminous spot in the
darkness of the
calle. Alice looked at her with emotion.
"I want to say something to you."
"Yes?"
"If you are ever in trouble--if you ever want me, send for me. Address
Treviso, and it will always find me."
Kitty made no reply. They had reached a bridge over a side canal, and
she stopped, leaning on the parapet.
"Did you hear what I said?" asked her companion.
"Yes. I'll remember. I suppose you think it your duty. What do you do
with yourself?"
"I have two orphan children I bring up. And there is my lace-school. It
doesn't get on much; but it occupies me."
"Are you a Catholic?"
"Yes."
"Wish I was!" said Kitty.
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