Nevertheless, if you come to Rome, you will find young men
better disposed than I am, than we are. Come, speak, let us also listen
to you! To-day it is curiosity with us, to-morrow, who knows? we may
feel the right spirit. Come to Rome!"
"Give me your name," said Benedetto.
The other offered him his card. His name was Elia Viterbo. Benedetto
looked at him curiously.
"Yes, indeed," he said, "I am a Jew; but these two baptised ones are no
better Christians than I am. I have, moreover, no religious prejudices."
The interview was over. As they were leaving, the youngest of the party,
the man of the stream of questions, made a last onslaught.
"Tell us, at least, if you believe Catholics should vote on political
questions?"
Benedetto was silent. The other insisted:
"Will you not answer even that question?"
Benedetto smiled.
"_Non expedit_," said he.
There were steps in the ante-room; two gentle taps at the door; the
Selvas entered with Noemi. Maria Selva came in first, and seeing
Benedetto dressed thus, could not restrain a movement of indignation, of
regret, and a soft laugh; then she blushed and wished to speak a word
of protest, but could not find the right one.
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