I smiled and thanked him. I noticed he looked at me curiously.
"You think I have changed in appearance, my friend?" I said.
The Sicilian looked embarrassed.
"Ebbene! we must all change," he answered, lightly, evading my glance. "The days pass on--each day takes a little bit of youth away with it. One grows old without knowing it!"
I laughed.
"I see," I observed. "You think I have aged somewhat since you saw me?"
"A little, eccellenza," he frankly confessed.
"I have suffered severe illness," I said, quietly, "and my eyes are still weak, as you perceive," and I touched my glasses. "But I shall get stronger in time. Can you come with me for a few moments? I want your help in a matter of importance."
He nodded a ready assent and followed me.