Benham was rather still and stiff during the meal, but it ill
becomes an English aristocrat to discuss the manners of an alien
population, and Amanda was amused by the effusion of the landlord
and a little disposed to experiment upon him. She sat radiating
light amidst the shadows.
The question of the vehicle was broached. The landlord was
doubtful, then an idea, it was manifestly a questionable idea,
occurred to him. He went to consult an obscure brown-faced
individual in the corner, disappeared, and the world without became
eloquent. Presently he returned and announced that a carozza was
practicable. It had been difficult, but he had contrived it. And
he remained hovering over the conclusion of their meal, asking
questions about Amanda's mountaineering and expressing incredulous
admiration.
His bill, which he presented with an uneasy flourish, was large and
included the carozza.
He ushered them out to the carriage with civilities and compliments.
It had manifestly been difficult and contrived. It was dusty and
blistered, there had been a hasty effort to conceal its recent use
as a hen-roost, the harness was mended with string.
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