The orange blossoms are all gone, so nothing on the winter workbench holds its scent for long. With nothing left to cover it, every morning shows exactly what I've made.

• ConcettaHands slow down in winter. Bank one of the alembic fires and get some sleep.
  Bianca del MonteIt's already just one fire. Leave it burning late, and someone starts counting windows.
• Pippo the Errand BoyMy lady, if you're cold you can warm up by our kitchen hearth. I already told Nardo.
  Bianca del MonteThey say a house where the servant boy worries for the lady lasts long. Remember that.