“But I must and will go to church, to-day, Antonia; it is the Santa Lucia; and the altar is to be decked—and there is to be a procession—and all the world will be there—and I tell you, I must go.”

“But our aunt is worse to-day, you know; she must not be left alone. And remember, it is my turn to go out to-day, Claudia; and Camillo will be so disappointed, if I do not meet him; for I promised him, I would, as I knew to-day was my Sunday abroad, and—”

“O, if it be to meet your betrothed, of course, I must give up; retorted Claudia. “No doubt, a pious duty ought to give way to a love-meeting.”

“Nay, you are unjust, sister;” replied Antonia. “I merely pleaded for my turn, thinking of his disappointment, and my promise; but I must not be selfish. My aunt shall not be left, yet you shall have your wish. Go to church, dear. It is a laudable motive; you shall pray for me; and above all, for our poor sick aunt. Fetch your veil, my Claudia; and I will arrange it for you.”