s to see that no one rows out to the boats in the bay
without a passport, there are plenty of men who would like to leave
without permission," Roderigo explained, "My uncle is there to keep
them safe in Italy."

"Are they Austrians?" Lucia inquired.

Roderigo winked.

"They are Italian citizens on the face of things," he replied, "but in
their hearts--" An expressive gesture finished the sentence.

Just as Maria was about to ask another question Beppi ran into the ward.

"Lucia, Lucia, come quickly, the American is packing Garibaldi up in a
box, and you are missing all the fun."

Lucia jumped up.

"Oh I must go and help," she exclaimed, "I will see you again for
good-by."

She followed Beppi to the garden and found Lathrop nailing on the top
to a big wooden crate. From between the slats Garibaldi looked out
reproachfully.

Lucia petted and consoled her until it was time to go.

Garibaldi left first in a wagon; she was going all the way by train.
Lucia had many misgivings but she watched the wagon out of sight with a
smile.

Her thoughts were soon diverted by the arrival of a big automobile.
Captain Riccardi was helped in by the doctor and Lathrop, and after
repeated good-bys Lucia took her place beside him.

The car started off slowly, they were going to take the train at a
point several miles south.

Lucia watched the walls of Cellino grow dim against their background of
bare mountains. It was her first departure, and it marked a new period
in her life.

CHAPTER XVIII

IN THE GARDEN

"How does my little sister like her new home?"

Captain Riccardi was sitting in a comfortable chair in the warmth and
sunshine of his garden. He looked very much stronger than on his
departure from Cellino. A month under the southern sky had done much
to make him well again, and as he sat looking at Lucia he was turning
over in his mind the possibility of returning to the front. Lucia was
picking flowers near him, she had a basket over her arm and a big pair
of scissors.

Her cheeks, that had been so pale, were flushed and round, and an
expression of happy contentment took the place of the excited sparkle
in her eyes.

She dropped down on the ground beside the Captain as he spoke, and
looked up at him.

"That is the very first time you have asked me that," she said, "and we
have been here for a long time. You know I think it is very, very
wonderful, what could be more beautiful than this garden, bu