human
How long a walk is it, father, from here into the wood?
gpt
It is a very short distance, daughter. There is a footpath practicable in dry weather like this, a good deal nearer than the road we saw the bagarino follow. You might get to the edge of the Pineta in that way in less than ten minutes.
human
And would it be possible to return to the city that way, instead of coming back to the road?
gpt
Yes; for a part of the way there is a path along the border of the wood. Then you must fall back into the road. The way lies by the gate of the farm-house.
human
I think I will go back to the city now, father. This scaffold is just where it will suit me. And to-morrow, a little later perhaps than this, I hope to come and begin my work. I shall have to come in a carriage, at all events, the first time, because of bringing my things. I am so much obliged to you, father, for your kindness. And I am so glad that you are a Venetian. I little thought to find a fellow-countryman here.
gpt
Or I to see this morning a Venetian--much less--but we will speak more of that another time--if you will permit an old man sometimes to speak to you when you are at your work?
human
Ma come--I can talk while I work. It will be a real pleasure to me to hear the dear home tongue. I will go down the ladder first. I am not the least afraid.