Summary

In Chapter 18, believing that it might be for the best, Hugo took out his service revolver and considered ending his life. He decided not to because he did not want Sofia to find him dead. When Hugo’s fever finally broke, he discovered Sofia had changed his pants and underwear while he was sleeping. The medal of a saint had been tied around his wrist. The wound no longer looked infected and appeared to be healing. He heard church bells and assumed it was Sunday. When Sofia came after dark she explained the bells were ringing because the Germans were in town.

Sofia also told Hugo that Cosimo, whom she believed was the leader of the partisans, had been paying attention to her and making her uncomfortable. She wanted to remain true to her husband until he was declared dead.

In Chapter 19, set...