[Salieri reaches out to shake his hand at that, as close to a beaming smile as he's ever gotten. He grips it tightly, something warm tightening in his chest]

Please, think nothing of it. [Really...what was he thinking? He let Hester get to him, but...he should rectify that. Benjamin is a good man, and moreover a good friend. A true one, and honest, and when was the last time Salieri could say he had a friend like that]

If I could beg a small favor...perhaps would you call me Antonio? [his smile goes a little shy, but there's a tentative earnestness to it] I have not had anyone call me that for a long time, and I would consider it quite the privilege if you would. [Tomorrow. He'll give Benjamin those last few items he's been holding on to tomorrow.]