Sant' Ilario

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Sacmillan's Sixpenny Series SANT ILARIO By F. MARION CRAWFORD Crown 8vo. 6s. each. A Maid of Venice (Shortly] In the Palace of the King Via Crucis Corleone l'niform Edition. Crun Brio. 34. 61. each, Mr. Isaacs The Three Fates Doctor Claudius. Also 87o. Marion Darche Sewed. ou. Children of the King A Roman Singer Katharine Lauderdale Zoroaster Pietro Ghisleri. A Tale of a Lonely Parish Don Orsino Marzio's Crucifix The Ralstons Paul Patoff Casa Braccio With the Immortals Adam Johnstone's Son Greifenstein A Rose of Yesterday Sant' Ilario Taquisara Cigarette-Maker's Romance Khaled Foolscap 8210. The Witch of Prague Love in Idleness 2.$. Ave Roma Immortalis. With Illustrations. 2 vols. C'home'n Brio. 2IS. net. Eddition de Luxe. 2 vols, 50$. liet, Rulers of the South : Sicily, Calabria, and Malta. Illustrated. 2 vols. Ex. Crown 8vo. 21s, net. Edition de Lu.12. 2 vols. 505. net. The Novel : What it is. Port 823. 3.s. Constantinople. Foolscap 4to. 65, 64. LONDON: MACMILLAN AND CO., LT).

SANT ILARIO
BY
F. MARION CRAWFORD
London
M®ACMILLAN AND CO., LIMITED
NEW YORK:
THE MACMILLAN COMPANY
1901
[-lll rights reserved]

COPYRIGHT 1888
BY
F. MARION CRAWFORT)
First Edition (3 vols., crozen 870.), September, 1857. View Edition ( 1 vol.,
crown sin.,, Darmher, 18S). Reprinted February, 1890); llay and
November, 1891, 1893, 1895, 1893? Reissue 1901. Sixpenny Edition,
190r.
PRINTED BY CHORIEY AND PICKERSGILI.,
THE ELECTRIC PRESS, LEEDS.

ΤΟ.
My Wife
TUIS SECOND PART OF “SARACINESCA'
IS LOVINGLY DEDICATED

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CO NOT 0:0 PAGOS, SANT ILARIO time among soldiers like himself, and who lind CILAPTER I fledged his honour to follow the gallant Charette and defend the l'ope as long as he coull carry Two years of service in the Zonaves had wrought a muskot, a change in Anastaso (iouache, the painter. He There is a sharp dividing line between youth was still a light man, nervously built, with small and manhood. Sometimes we cross it early, and hands and feet, and a delicate face; but constant sometimes late, but we do not know that wo aro exposure to the weather had browned his skin, I assing from one life to another as we step across and a life of unceasing activity had strengthened the boundary. The world seems to us the sanio his sinews and hardened his compact frame. The for a while, as we know it yesterday and shall clustering black curls were closely cropped, too, know it to-morrow. Suddenly, we look lack while the delicate dark moustache had slightly and start with astonishment when we see the thickened. He harl grown to bo a very soldierly past, which we thought so near, already vanishyoung fellow, straight and alert, quick of hand ing in the distance, shapeless, confused, and and eye, inured to that perpetual readiness which estranged from our present selves. . Then we is the first characteristic of the good soldier, know that we are men, and acknowledge, with whether in peace or war. The dreamy look that something like a sigh, that we have put away was so often in his face in the days when he sat childish things. upon a high stool painting the portrait of Bonna When Couche pnt on the grey jacket, the red Tullia Mayer, had given place to an expression sash and the yellow gaiters, he became a man of wideawake curiosity in the world's doings. and speedily forgot Donna Tollia and her errors, Anastase was an artist by nature, and no and for some time afterwards he clid not care to amount of military servico could crush the chief recall them. When he tried to remember the aspirations of his intolligence. He had not scenes at the studio in the Via San Basilio, they abandoned work since he had joined the Zouaves, seemed very far away.. One thing alone confor his hours of leisure from duty were passed stantly reminded him disagreeably of the past, in his stuclio. But the change in his outward and that was his unfortunate failure to watch appearance was connected with a similar develop. Del l'orice when the latter hard escape from ment in his character. He himself sometimes Rome in the disguise of a mendicant frian wondered how he could have ever taken any Anastase had never been able to understand interest in the half-heartel political fumbling how he hal missed the fugitive. It had soon which Donna Tullia, Ugo Del Ferice, and others become known that Dol Forice had escaped by of their set used to dignify by the name of con- the very pass which (ouache was patrolling, and spiracy. It seemed to him that his ideas must the young Zonave had felt the bitterest, morli. at that time have been deplorably confused and fication in losing so valuable anıl so easy a prey. lamentably unsettled. Ho sometimes took out He often thought of it, and promised hiniself the old sketch of Madamo Mayer's portrait, and that he would visit his anger on Del Ferice setting it upon his easel, tried to realise and bring if he ever got a chance ; but Del Forico was out back those times when she had sat for him. llo of reach of his vengeance, and Donna Tullia could recall Del Ferico's mock heroics, Donna Mayer had not returned to Rome since the Tullia's ill-expressed invectives, and his own half previous year. It had been rumourer of late sarcastic sympathy in the liberal movement; but that sho had at last fulfilloi the engagement the young follow in an old velveteen jatket who contracted some time carlier, and had consented used to talk glibly about tho guillotine, about to be called the Contessa Dell Ferice ; this stringing up the clericals to streot-lamps and piece of news, however, was not yot fully turning the churches into popular theatres, was confirmed. Gouache lud heard the gossip, and surely not the energetic, sunburnt Zouave who had immediately made a livciy slutch on the had been hunting down brigands in the Samnite back of a half-finished pictui's, representing hills last summer, who spent three-fourths of his Donna Tullia, in her bridal dress, leaning upon SANT ILARIO the arm of Del Ferico, who was arrayed in Women liked him, he liked them, and he was # Capockin's cowl, and underneath, with his constantly in the society of some of the most brush, he scrawled a legond, " Finis coronat beautiful in tho world. Nevertheless, he tunelt opus." from one to another and found a liko pleasure It was nearly six o'clock in the afternoon in the conversation of them all. What dolighted of the 23rd of September. The day had been him in the one was not what charmed hin most. rainy, but the sky had cleared an hour beforo in the next, but the oquilibrium of satisfaction sunset, and there was a sweet, damp freshness was well maintained between the dark and the in the air, very grateful after the long weeks of fair, the silent beauty and the pretty woman of late summer Anastase Gouache had been on intelligence. There was, indeed, one whom duty at the Serristori barracks in the Borgo he thought more noble in heart and grander in Santo Spirito and walked briskly up to tho symmetry of form and featuro, and stronger bridge of Sant' Angelo. There was not much in mind than the rost; but she was immeasurably movement in the streets, and the carriages were removed from the sphere of his possible devotion few. A couple of officers were lounging at the by her devoted love of her husband, and he gate of the castle and returned Gouacho's salute admired her from a distance, even while As ho passed. In the middle of the bridge speaking with her. he stopped and looked westward, down the As he passed the Apollo theatro and asconded short reach of the river which caught a lurid the Via di Tordinona the lights were beginning reflection of the sunset on its eddying yellow to twinkle in the low doorways, and the gassurface. Ho mused a moment, thinking more lamps, then a very recent innovation in Rome, of the dotails of his duty at the barracks than shone out one by one in the distance. I'he street of the scene before him. Then he thought of is narrow, and was full of traffic, even in the the first time he had crossed the bridge in his evening. Pedestrians elbowed thoir way along Zonave uniform, and a faint smile flickered in the dusk, every now and then fattening on his brown features. It happened almost themselves against the dingy walls to let a cab every day that he stopped at the same place, or a carringe rush past them, not without real and as particular spots often become associated risk of accident. Before the deep, arched gatewith ideas that seem to belong to them, the way of the Orso, one of the most ancient inne in saine- thought almost always recurred to his the world, the empty wine-carts wero getting mind as he stood there. Then followed the ready for the return journey by night across the samo daily wondering as to how all these things Campagna, the great bunches of little bells were to end ; whether he should for years to jingling loudly in the dark as the carters come wear the red sash and the yellow gaiters, buckled the harness on their horses' backs. a corporal of Zouaves, and whether for years he Just as Gouache reached this place, the should ask himself every day the same question. darkest and most crowded through which ho Presently, as the light faded from the houses had to pass, & tremeurlons clatter and rattlu of the Borgo, he turned away with an impor from the Via dell'Orso made the hurrying ceptible shrug of the shoulders and continued peoplo draw back to the shelter of the doorsteps his walk upon the narrow pavement at the side and arches. It was clear that a rumaway horse of the bridge. As he descended the step at the was not far off. One of the carters, the back of end, to the level of the square, a small bright whose wagon was half-way across the opening object in a crevice of the stones attracted his of the street, made «lesperate efforts to makeattention, He stooped and picked it up. his bcast advance and clear the way; but the It was a little gold pin, sonie two inches long, frightened animal only backed farther up. the hcad beaten ont and twisted into the shape A inoment later the runaway charged down of the letter C. Gouache examined it attentively, past the tail of the lumbering vehicle. The and saw that it must have been long used, for horse himself just cleared the projecting timbers. it was slightly bent in more than one place of the cart, but the cab he was furiously. as though it had often been thrust through dragging canght upon them while going at full sonie thick material. It told no other talo speed and was shivered to pieces, throwing the of its possessor, however, and the young man horso heavily upon the stones, so that he slid slipped it into his pocket and went on his way, along soveral feet on his headsand knees with idly wondering to whom the thing belonged the fragments of the broken shafts and the Ho reflected that if he had heon bent on any wreck of the harness about hini. The first maji important matter he would probably have to spring from the crowd and seize the beast's considered the finding of a bit of gold as heal was Anastase. He did not see that the a favourable omen ; but ho was merely returning same instant a large private carriage, drawn by to his lodging as usual, and had no engagement a pair of powerful horses, emerged quickly from for the evening. Indeed, he expected no event tho Vicolo dei Soldati, the third of the streets in his life at that time, and following the train which meet tho Via di Tordinong at thò Orsa. of his meditation he smiled a little when he Tho driver, who owing to the darkness had not thought that he was not even in love. For seen the disaster which had just taken place, a Frenchmit, pearly thirty years of age, the did his best to stop in time, but beforo the position was an unusual one enough. In heavy equipage could be brought to a stindo Gouache's case it was especially remarkable Anastaso had been thrown to the ground, SANT' ILARIO between the hoofs of the struggling cab-horse while her father supported the inanimate body. and the feet of the startled pair of bays. The of the Zouavo as the carriago swung over tho crowd closed in as near as was safe, while the uneven pavement. In & fow minutos they rolled confusion and the shouts of the people and the beneath a deep arch and stopped at the foot of Carters inoreased overy minute. a broad marble staircase. The coachman of the private carriage threw Bring him upstairs carefully, and send for the reigns to the footman and sprang down to a surgeon,” said the prince to the men who go to the horses? heads. canie forward. Then he offered his arm to his 1. You have run over a Zouave !” someone daughter to ascend the steps, as though nothing shouted from the crowd, had happened, and without bestowing another Mexo male! Tänk goodness it was not look on the injured soldier. one of us !" exclaimed another voice. Donna Faustina was just eighteen years old, Where is he... Get him out, some of you !” and had only quitted the convent of the Sacro cried the coachman, as he seized the reins close Cuore a month enrlier. It might have been to the bit. said that she was too young to be heautiful, for By this timo a couple of stout gendarmes and she evidently belonged to that class of women two or three soldiers of the Antibes legion had who do not attain their full dovelopment until made their way to the front, and were dragging a later period. Her figure wils almost too away the fallen cah-horse. A tall, thin, elderly slender, her face almost too delicate and ethereal. gentleman, of a somewhat sour countenanco, There was about her a girlish look, an atmosdescended from the carriage and stooped over phero of half-saintly maidenhood, which was the injured soldier. not so much the expression of her real nature as "It is only a Zouave, Excellency,” said the the effect produced by her being at once very coachman, with a sort of sigh of reliof. thin and very fresh. There was indeed nothing The tall gentleman lifted Gouacho's head particularly angelic about her warm brown eyes, & little so that the light from the carriage-lamp shaded by unusually long black lashes; and fell upon his face. He was quite insensiblo, and little wayward locks of chestnut hair, curling there was blood upon his pale forehead and white from heneath the small round hat of the period, cheeks. One of the gendarmes came forward. just before the small pink cars, softened as with We will take care of him, Signore," he said, a breath of worldliness the grave outlines of tho touching his threo-cornered hat. “ But I must serious face. A keen student of women might beg to know your revered name,” he added, in have seen that the dim religious halo of convent the stock Italian phraso. “Capira-I am very life which still cluny to the young girl would sorry--but they say your horsessoon fado and give way to tho brilliancy of the “ Put him into my carriage," answered the woman of the world. She was not tall, though elderly gerutleman shortly. "I am the Principe of fully average height, and although the dress Montevarchi.” of that time was ill-adapted to show to advan- “ But, Excellency--the Signorina------" pro- tage either the figure or the movements, it was tested the couchman. The prince paid no evident, as she stepped lightly from tho carriage, attention to the objection, and helped the that sho had a full share of case and grace. Sho gondarmo to deposit Anastaso in the interior of possessed that unconscious certainty in motion the vehicle. Then he gavo the man a silver which proceeds naturally from the perfect proscudo. portion of all the parts, and which oxercises a “Send someone to the Serristori barracks to far greater influence over men than a faultless say that a Zouave has been hurt and is at my profile or a dazzling skin. house," he said. Therewith ho entered the Instead of taking her father's arm, Donna carriage and ordered the coachman to drive Faustina turned and looked at the face of the homo, wounded Zouave, whom three men had carefully In Heaven's name, what has happened, takon from the carriage and were preparing to pápa ?." asked a young voice in the darkness, carry upstairs. Poor Gouache was hardly fromulous with oxcitement. recognisable for the smart soldier who had My dear child, there has been an accident crossed the bridge of Sant'Angelo half-an-hour * the street, and this young man has been earlier. His uniform was all stained with mud, wounded, or killed there was blood upon his palo face, and his * Kiled! A deathy man in the carriage ! limbs hung down, powerless and limp. But öried the young girl in some terror, and shrink-' as the young girl looked at him consciousness ing away into the corner, returned, and with it came the senso of acute You should really control your nerves, suffering. He opened his nyes suddenly, as austina," replied her father in austore tones. men often do when thoy rovive after being the young man is dead, it is the will of stunned, and a short groun escaped from his eaven. If he is alive we shall soon find it out. lips. Then, as he realised that he was in the Hinwhile I must beg you to hè calm-to be presence of a lady, he made an effort as though calm, do you understand?" to release himself from the hands of those who. Danna Faustina Montevarchi made no answer carried him, and to stand upon his febt. to thia parental injunction, but withdrow as far “Pardon mo, Madame," he began to say, but as she could into the corner of the back scat, Faustina checked him by a gosture.

12 SANT' ILARIO CH. 66 > > Meanwhile old Montevarchi had oprefully Principe Montevarchi, and sole possessor of scrutinised the young man's face, and had forty or fifty other titles. From his will and recognised him, for they had often met in upon his pleasure depender every act of every society. member of his household, from his eldest son "Monsicur Gouache!” he exclaimed in sur. and heir, the Duca di Bellegra, to that of prise. At the same time he made the men move Pietro Paolo, the under-cook's scullion's boy. on with thoir burden. There were three sons and four daughtors. “ You know bim, papa?” whispered Donna Two of the sons were married, to wit, Don Faustina as they followed together. He is a Ascanio, to whom his father had given his , gentleman ? I was right ?'' second title, and Don Onorato, who was allowed "Of course, of course," answered her father. to call himself Principe di Cantalupo, Wut who "But really, Faustina, had you nothing better would have no legal claim to that distifiction to do than to go and look into his face ? after his father's death. Last of the three Imagine, if he had known you ! Dear 'me! If camo Don Carlo, a young fellow of twenty you begin liko this, as soon as you arc out of the years, but not yet emancipated from the superconventvision of his tutor. Of the daughters, the two Montevarchi left the rest of the sentence to eldest, Bianca and Laura, were married and no his daughter's iniagination, merely turning up longer lived in Rome, the ono having boen his eyes a little as though doprecating the just matched with a Neapolitan and the other with Vengeance of Heaven upon his daughter's a Florentine. There reinained still at home, inisconduct. therefore, the third, Donna Flavia, and tho Really, papaprotested Faustina. youngest of all the family, Donna Faustina. “Yes-- really, my langhter--I am much Though Flavia was not yet two and twenty surprised," returned her incensed parent, still years of age, her father and mother were speaking in an undertone lest the injured man alrearly beginning to lespair of marrying her, should overhear what was sail. and dropped frequent hints about tho advisa- They reached the head of the stairs and the bility of making her enter religion, as thoy men carried Gouache rapidly away; not so calleil it; that is to say, they thought she had quickly, however, as to prevent Faustina from better take the veil and retire from the world. getting another glimpse of his face. His eyes The old Princess Montevarchi was English were open and met hors with an expression of by birth and education, but thirty-three years mingled interest and gratitude which she did of life in Rome harl almost obliterated all not forget. Then he was carried away and she traces of her nationality. That all-pervading did not see him again, influence, which so 8000 makes Romans of The Montevarchi household was conducted foreigners who marry into Roinan families, upon the patriarchal principle, one general in hart done its work effectually: The Roman Kome, and not quite abandoned cven now, nobility, by i1.termarriage with the principal twenty years later than the date of Gonache's families of the rest of Europe, has lost accident. The palace was a huge square many Italian characteristics; but its members building facing upon two streets, in front and are more essentially Ponians than the fullhehind, and opening inwards upon two court. blooded Italians of the other classes who dwell yards. Upon the lower floor were stables, side by side with the aristocracy in Rome. coach-housos, kitchens, and offices innumerable. When Lady Gwendoline Fontenoy married Above these there was built a half story, callerl Don Lotario Montevarchi in the year 1834, a mezzanino--in French, entresol, containing she, no doubt, believed that her children woull the quarters of the unmarried sons of the grow up as English as she herself, and that her house, of the household chaplain, and of two or husband's house would not differ materially from three tutors enıployed in the clucation of the an establishment of the same kind in England. Montevarchi grandchildren. Next above, came She langhed merrily at the provisions of the the "piano nobile," or state apartments, com- marriago contract, which even went so far as to prising the rooms of the prince and princess, stipulate that she was to have at least two the dining-room, and a vast suite of reception dishes of meat at dinner, and an equivalent on roonis, each of which opened into the next in fast-days, a drivo every day--the traclitional such a manner that only the last was not trottata.-two new gowns ellery year, and a necessarily a passage. In the huge hall was the woman to wait upon her. After these and dais and canopy. with the family arms similar provisions haul been agreed upon, hor embroidered in colours once gaudy but now dowry, which was a largo one for those days, agreeably faded to a softer tone. Above this was handed over to the keeping of her father-infloor was another, occupied by the married law and she was duly inarried to Don Lotario, sons, their wives and children ; and high over who all once assumed the title of Duca di all, above the cornice of the palace were the Bellegra. The wedding journey consisted of endless servants' quarters and the loony a fortnight's retirement in the Villa Montevarchi garrets. At a rough ex.imate the ostablishment at Frascati, and at the end of that timt the comprised over a hundred porsons, all living young couple were installed under the paternal under the absolute and despotic authority of the roof in Roine. "Before she had been in her now head of the house, Don Lotario Montevarchi, above a month the young Duchessa realised the of ages. SANT ILARIO 13: nţter hopelessness of attempting to change the became part of her, and as everything went on existing system of patriarchal government under unchazıged from year to year she acquired uuwhich she found herself living. She discovered, changing babits which corresponded with her in the first place, that she would never have surroundings. Then, when at last the old five scudi of her own in her pocket, and that if prince and princess wero laid side by side in the she needed a landkerchief or a pair of stockings vault of tho family chapel and she was princoss it was necessary to obtain from the head of the in her turn, sho changed nothing, but let everylouso not only the pormission to buy such thing go on in the same groove, educating her necessaries, but the money with which to pay children and managing them, as her husband had for then. She discovered, furthermore, that if been educated and as she herself had been she wanted a cup of coffee or some bread and managed by the old couple. Her husband grew butter, out of hours, those things were charged more and more like his father, punctilious, to her daily account in the steward's office, as rigid ; a strict observant in religious matters, *though she had been in an inn, and were paid a pedant in little things, prejudiced against all for at the end of the year out of the incomo change ; too satisfied to dosire improvement, too arising from her dowry. Her husband's younger scrupulously conscientious to permit any rebrother, who had no money of his own, couli trogression from established rule, a model of not even get a lemonade in his father's house the innutability of an ancient aristocracy, without his father's consent. living paradigma of what always had been and Moreover, the family life was of such a a stubborn barrier against all that might be. nature as almost to preclude all privacy. The Such was the home to which Donna Faustina young Duchessa and her husband had their Montevarchi returned to live after spending bedroom in the upper story, but Don Lotario's ciglit years in the convent of tho Sacro Cuore. request that his wife might have a sitting-room During that time she had acquired the French of her own was looked upon as an attempt at a language, a slight knowledge of music, a very clumestic revolution, and the privilege was only limited acquaintance with the history of her obtained at last through the formidable inter- own country, a ready memory for prayers and vention of the Duke of Agincourt, the Duchessa's litanies and her manners. Manners among the own father. All the family meals, too, were Italians are called education. What we mean by eaten together in the solenın old dining-hall, the latter word, namely, the learning acquired, hung with tapestries and dingy with the dust is called, more precisely, instruction. An The order of precedence was always educated person means il person who has strictly observed, and though the cooking was acquired the art of politeness. An instructed of a strange kind, no plato or clish was ever person means someone who has learnt rather used which was not of solid silver, battered more than the average of what is generally indeod, and scratched, and cleaned only after learnt by the class of people to whom he belongs. Italian ideas, but heavy and massive withal. Donna Faustina was extremely well educated, The Duchessa soon learned that the old Roman according to Roman ideas, but her instruction houses all used silver plates from motives of was not, and was not intended to be, any better economy, for the simple reason that metal did than that imparted to the young girls with not break. But tho sen-ible English woman whom she was to associate in the world. saw also that although the most rigid economy As far as her character was concerned, she was practised in many things, there was lavish herself knew very little of it, and would expenditure in many departments of the estab- probably have found herself very much embarlishi ht. There were magnificent ho in rassed if called upon to explain what character the stables, gorgeously gilt carriages in the meant. She was new and the world was very coach-houses, scores of domestics in bright old. The nuns had told her that she inust never liveries at every door. The pay of the servants care for the world, which was a very sinful did not, indoed, exceed the average earnings of place, full of thorns, ditches, pitfalls, and a shocblack in London, but the coats they wore sinners, besides the devil and his angels. Her were exceeding glorious with gold lace. sister Flavia, on the contrary, assured her that It was clear fro:n the first that nothing was the world was very agreeable, when mamma expected of Dou Lotario's wife but to live happened to go to sleep in a corner during peaceably under the patriarchal rule, making a ball; that all men were deceivers, but that 110 observations and offering no suggestions. when a man danced well it made no difference Her husband told her that he was powerless to whether he were a deceiver or not, sinos lie introduce any changes, and added, that since danced with his legs and not with his conscience ; his father and all his ancestors had always lived that there was no happiness equal to a good in thesame way, that way was quite good enough cotillon, and that there were a number of these for him. Indeed, ho rather looked forward to in every season ; and, finally, that provided one the time when he should be master of the house, did not spoil one's complexion one might do having children under him whom he might rule anything, so long as manima was not looking as Xhsolutely and despotically as he was ruled lo Donna Faustina, these views, held by the hinisolf. nuus on the one hand and by Flavia on the In the course of years the Duchessil absorbed other, seemed very conflicting. She would not, tlfe traditions of her new home, so that they indeed, havo hesitated in choosing, even if she SANITLARIU." "What C6 was had been pormitted any choice ; for it was clear that, since she has seen the convent side of the CHAPTER II questiou, it would be very interesting to seo the other. But, having been told so much about “You know Gouache ?:") asked old Princes sinners, she was on the look out for them, and Saracinesca, in a tono which implied that he looked forward to muking the acquaintance of had news to tell. He looked froin his daughterone of them with a pardonable excitement. in-law to his son as he put the question, and Doubtless she would hate a sinner if she saw then went on with his breakfast. one, as the nuns had tanght her, although the Very well," answered Giovanni. winner of her imagination was not a very repul. about him? sive personage. Flavia probably knew a great “Ho was knocked down by a carriage last many, and Flavia said that society was very night. The carriage belonged to Moritevarchi, amusing. Faustina wished that the autumn and Gouache is at his house, in danger of his months would pass a little more quickly, so that life." the carnival season might begin. Poor fellow !” exclaimed Corona in ready Prince Montevarchi, for his part, intended sympathy. “I am so sorry! I am very fond his youngest daughter to be a model of prim of Couache." propriety. He attributed to Flavia's frivolity Giovanni Saracinesca, known to the world of behaviour the difficulty he experienced in since his marriage as Prince of Sant' Ilario, finding her a husband, and he had no intention glanco quickly at his wife, so quickly that of exposing himself to a second fa are in the neither she nor the old gentleman noticed the case of Faustina. She should marry in her fact. first season, and if she chose to ho gay after The three persons sat at their mid,day brzakthat, the responsibility thereof might fall upon fast in the diuing-room of the PalazzoSaracinesca. her husband, or her father-in-law, or upon After much planning and many discussions the whomsoever it should most concern ; he himself young couple had determined to take up their would have fulfilled his duty so soon as the abode with Giovanni's father. There were - nuptial boncdiction was pronouncod. He kuew several reasons which led led them to this the fortune and reputation of every marriageable decision, but the two chief ones were that they young man in society, and therefore were both devotedly attached to the old man; eminently fitted for the task he undertook. To and secondly, that such a proceeding was strictly tell the truth, Faustina herself expected to be fitting and in accordance with tho customs of married before Caster, for it was eminently Romans. It was true that Corona, while her fitting that a young girl should lose no time in old husband, the Duca d'Astrardente, was alive, such matters. But she meant to choose a man had grown used to having an establishment ex-' after her own heart, if she found one; at all clusively her own, and both the Saracinesca had events, she would not submit too readily to the at first feared that she would be unwißling to live paternal choice nor appear satisfied with the in her father-in-law's house. Then, too, there first tolerable suitor who should be presented to was tho Astrardente palace, which could not be her. shut up and allowed to go to ruin; but this matter Under these circumstances it seemed probable was compromised advantageously by Corona's that Donna Faustina's first season, which had letting it to an American millionaire who wished begun with the unexpected adventure at the to spend the winter in Rome. The rent paid was corner of the old Orso, would not come to large, and Corona never could have too much a close without some passage of arms between money for her improvements out at Astrardente. horself and her father, even though the ultimate Old Saracinesca wished that the tonant might conclusion should lead to the steps of the altar. have been at least a diplomatist, and cursed the The men carried the wounded Zouave away American by his gods, but Giovanni said that to a distant room, and Faustina entered the his wife had shown good sense in getting as much main apartments by the side of the old prince, as she could for the palace. She sighed a little as she went. “ We shall not need it till Orsino grows up "I hope the poor man will get well!” she unless you marry again,” said Sant'Ilario to his exclaimed. father, with a laugh. “Do not disturb your mind about the young Now, Orsino was Giovanni's son and heir, man," answered her father. “He will bo agod, at the time of this talé, six months and attended by the proper persons, and the doctor a few days. In spite of his extreme youth, howwill bleed him and the will of Heaven will be ever, Orsino played a great and important part done. It is not the duty of a well-conducted in the doings of the Saracinesca household. In young woman to be thinking of such things, the first place, he was the heir, and the old prince and you may dismiss the subject at once. had been found sitting by his cradle with ản “Yes, papá," said Faustina submissively: expresion never seen in his face since Giovanni But in spite of the dutiful tone of voice in which had been a baby. Secondly, Orsino was a very she spoke, the dim light of the tall lamps in the fine child, swarthy of skin, and hard as tiger antechambers showed strange expression of cub, yot having already his mother's eyes, large, mingled amusenient and contrariety in the girl's coal black and bright, but deep and soft withal, ethereal face. Thirdly, Orsino had a will of his own, admirably ta 4 Wall seconded by an enormous lung power. Not that "You might travel," growled the old gentle he oried; when he wanted anything. His baby man. eyus hart not yet been seen to sheil tears, He “But I am very happy here." merely shouter, loud and long, and thumped the " Then what do you mean by talking like sides of lis cradle with his little clenched fists, that about Casa Montevarchi?” or struck out straight at anybody who chanced “I fail to see the connection between the two to be within reach. Corona rejoiced in the ideas," observed Giovanni. child, and used to say that he was like his “You live in precisely the same circumstances grandfather, his father, and his mother all put as Ascanio Bellegra. I think the connection is together. The old prince thought that if this clear enough. If his life is sad, so is yours." were true the boy would do very well; Corona "For downright good logic commend me to was the most beautiful dark woman of her my beloved father!" cried Giovann, breaking time;, he himself was a sturdy, tough old into a laugh at last. nian, though his hair and beard were white as "A laughing-stock for my children! I have snow, and Giovanni was his father's ideal of come to this !” exclaimed his fathor grully. what a man of his raco should be. The arrival But his features relaxed into a good-humoured of the baby Orsino had been an additional argu- smile, that was pleasant to see upon his strong, ment in favour of living together, for the child's dark face. grandfather could not have been separated from "But, really, I am very sorry to hear this of him even by tho quarter of a mile which lay poor Gouache,” said Corova at last, returning between the two palanes. to the original subject of their conversation. And so it came to pass that they all dwelt "I hope it is nothing really dangerous." under the same roof, and were sitting together “It is always dangerous to be run over by at breakfast on the morning of the 24th of Sep- a carriage," answered Giovanni. “I will go tember, when the old prince told them of the and see him, if they will let nie in." accidont which had happened to Gouache. At this juncture Orsino was brought in by his "How did you lear the news ?" asked nurse, a splendid creature from Saracinosca, Giovanni. with bright blue eyes and hair as fnir as any “Montevarchi told me this inorning; He Goth's, i contrast to tho swarthy child she was very much disturbed at the idea of having carried in her arms. Inimediately the daily an interestitig young man in his house, with ovation began, and each of the three persons Flavia and Faustina at home.” Old Saracinesca began to worship tho baby in an especial way. smiled grinly. There was no more conversation, after that, for "Why should that trouble him?” inquired some time. The youngest of the Saracinesca Corona. absorbed the attention of the family. Whether “He has the ancient ideas,” repliel her he clenched his little fists or opened his small, father-in-law. fat fingers, whether he laughed and crowed at “Aftor all-Flavia--" his grandfather's attempts to amuse him or “Yes. Flavia, after allstruck his nurse's rosy cheeks with his chubby "I shall be curious to see how the other hands, the result was always applause and oue turns out," remarked Giovanni. “There merriment from those who looked on. The seems to be a certain unanimity in our opinion scene recalled Joseph's dream, in which the of Flavia. However, I daresay it is mere gossip, sheaves of his brethren bowed down to his and Casa Montevarchi is not a gay place for sheaf. a girl of her age. After a while, however, Orsino grew sleepy * Not gay? How do you know?" asked the and had to be taken away. Then the little old prince “Does the girl want Carnival to party broke up and separated. The old prince last till All Souls'? Did you ever dine there, went to his rooms to read and doze for an hour. Giovannino?" Corona was called away to see one of the num. "NO -nor anyone else who is not a member berless dressmakers whose shaclows darken the of the most Excellent Casa Montevarchi." beginning of a season in town, and Giovanni "Then how do you know whether it is gay or took his hat and went out. not !! In those days young men of society had very "You should hear Ascanio Bellogra describe little to do. The other day a Gerinan diplo. their life," retorted Giovanni. matist was heard to say that Italian gentlemen “And I suppose you describe your life to seened to do nothing but smoke, spit, and him in exchange ? " Prince Saracinesca was criticise. Twenty years ago their manners boginning to lose his teniper, as he invariably might have been described less coarsely, but did whenever he could induce his son to argue there was aven more truth in the gist of the any qaestion with him. “I suppose you deplore saying. Not only they did nothing. There each other's miserable condition. I tell you was nothing for them to do. They floated about what I think, Giovanni. You had bettor go and in a peaceful millpool, whose placid surface live in Corona's house if you are not happy here," reflected nothing but their own idlo selves, little It is let," replied Giovanni, with imper- guessing that the dam whereby their mimic sea turbable calm, but his wife bit her lip to control was confined would shortly break with a thunher rising laughter. dering crash, and empty them all into the 32 16 SANT' ILARIO CH. streameof real life that flowed below. For the excitement. This was precisely what he could few who disliked idleness there was no occupa- not find during the months spent in Rome, and tion but literature, and literature, to the Roman so it fell out that he did very much what most inind of 1867, and in the Ronian meaning of the young nien of hig birth found quito sufficient as word, was scholarship. The introduction to an employment; he spent a deal of tiino in a literary career was supposed to bo obtained strolling where others strolled, in lounging at only by-ra profound stily of the classics, with a the club, and in making visits which filled the view to avoiding everything classical, both in hours between sunset and dinner. To him this language and ideas, oxcept Cicero, the apostle lifo was now, and not altogether tasteful; but of the ancient Roman Philistinos ; and the his friends did not fail to say that Giovanni had tendency to clothe stale truisms and feeblo been civilised by his marriage with the Astrar: sentiments on high-sounding language is still dente, and was much less, reserved than he had found in Italian prose, iind is indirectly traceable formerly been. to the same source. As for the literature of the When Couna went to sce the dressmaker, country since the Latins, it consisted, and still Giovanni vury naturally took his hat and went consişts, in the works of the four poets, Dante, out of the house. The September day was Tasso, Ariosto, and Petrarch. Leopardi is warm and bright, and in such weather it more read now than then, but is too unhealthily was a satisfaction merely to pace the old Roman melancholy to be read long by anyone. There streets in the autumn sun. It was too early to rised to be Roman princes who spent years in meet any of his acquaiutance, and too soon in conmitting to memory the verses of those four the season for any regular visiting, He did not poets, just as the young Brahman of to-day know what to do, but allowed himself to enjoy learns to recite the Rig Veda. That was called the sunshine and the sweet air. Presently, the the pursuit of literature. sight of a couple of Zouaves, talking together The Saracinesca were thought very original at the corner of a street, recalled to his mind and different from other men, because they gave the accident which had happened to Gouache. somu attention to their estates, It seemed very It would bo kind to go and see the poor fellow, like business to try and improve the possessions or at least to ask after him. He had kuown one had inherited or acquired by marriage, and him for some time and had gradually learned to business was degradation. Nevertheless, the like him, as most peoplo did who met the gifted Saracinesca were strong enough to laugh at artist day after day throughout the gaiety of other people's scruples, and did what seemed the winter. best in their own eyes without troubling them At the Palaz'Montevarchi Giovanni learned selves to ask what the world thought. But the that the princess had just finished breakfast. care of such matters was not enough to occupy Ho could hardly ask for (iouache without Giovanni all day. He had much time on his making a short visit in the drawing-room, and hands, for he was an active man, who slept he accordingly submitted, regretting after all little and rarely needed rest. Formerly ho had that he had come. The old princess bored him, been used to disappear from Rome periodically, he did not know Faustine, who was just out of making long journeys,, generally ending in the convent, and Flavia, who amused many shooting expeditions in somo half-explored people, did not anuso him in the least. Ho country. T'hat was in the days before his inwardly rejoiced that he was married, and marriage, and his wanderings had assuredly that his visit could not be interpreted as done him no harnı. He had seen much of tho a preliminary step towards asking for Flavia's world not usually seen by men of his class and hand. prejudices, and the acquaintanco he had thus The princess looked up with an expression of got with things and people was a source of great inquiry in her prominent blue eyes as Sant satisfaction to himn. But the time had come to Ilario entered. She was stout, florid, and not give up all this. He was now not only married well dressed. Her yellow hair, already half and settled in his own home, but moreover he grey, for she was more than fifty years old, loved his wife with his whole heart, and these was of the unruly kind, and had never looked facts were serious obstacles against roughing it neat even in her best days.' Hor bright, clear in Norway, Canada, or 'Transylvania. To travel complexion saved her, however, as it saves with Corona and litile Orsino seemed a very hundreds of middle-aged English women, from different matter from travelling with Corona that look of peculiar untidiness which belongs alone. Then there was his father's growing to dark-skinned persons who take no trouble affection for the child, which had to bo taken about their appearance or personal adornment. into account in all things. The four had beconie In spite of thirty-threo years of residence in inseparable, old Saracinesca, Giovanni, Corona, Rome, she spoke Italian with a foreign accent, and the baby. though otherwise correctly enough. But sho Now Giovanni did not regret his old liberty. was nevertheless a groat lady, and no one would He know that he was far happior than he had have thought of doubting the fact. Fat, ever been in his life before. But there were awkwardly dressed, of no imposing stature, days when the tine hurg heavily on his hands with unmanageable hair and prominent teeth, and his rectless nature craved some kind of she was not a person to be laughed at. She action which should bring with it a generous had what many a beautiful woman lacks and II SANTILARIO 17 " But very > >> envios-natural dignity of character and manner, that tho thing itself is not wholly meaningless combined with a self-possession which is not remains ineradicable. We say, with a smile at always found in exalted personages, That our own credulity, " That man looks as though repose of manner which is commonly believed ho had a story," or, · That woman looks as to be the heirloom of noble birth, is seen quite though something odd might happen to her." as often in the low-born adventurer, who. It is an exprossion in the eyes, a delicate shado rogards it as part of his stock-in-trado; and in the features, which speak of many things thore are many women, and men too, whose which wo do not understand ; things which, if position might be expected to place them they exist at all, we foel must bo inevitable, beyond the reach of what we call shyness, but fatal, and beyond human control. Giovanni who, novertheless, suffør daily agonies of social looked and was surprised, but l'autina said timidity and would rather face alone a charge nothing. of cavalry than make a new acquautance. The “It was very good of the prince to bring him Princess Montovarchi was mado of braver here," remarked Sant'Ilario. stuff, however, and if her daughters had not “It was very unlike papa,"exclaimed Flavia, inherited all her unaffected dignity they had at before hor mother could answer. least received their fair share of solf-possession. kind, of course, as you say," she added, with When Sant'Ilario entered, these two young a little sınile. Flavia bad a habit of making ladies, Donna Flavia and Donna l'austina, were rather startling remarks, and of then adding seated one on each side of their mother. The sonething in explanation or comment, before princess oxtended her hand, the two daughters her hearers had recovered breath. The addition held theirs, demurely crossed upon their knees. did not always mend matters very much. Faustina looked at the carpet, as she had been “Do not interrupt me, Flavia," said her taught to do in the convent. Flavia looked up mother, severoly. boldly at Giovanni, knowing by experience that “I beg your pardon, were you speaking, her mother could not see her while greeting the mamina ?” asked the young girl, innocently. visitor. Sant'Ilario muttered some sort of Giovanni was not amused by Flavia's inanners, civil inquiry, bowed to the two young ladies, and waited calmly for the princess to speak. and sat down. "Indeed," said she, “there was nothing else "How is Monsieur Gouache ?” he asked, to be done. As we had run over the poor going straight to the point. Ho had seen the man look of surprise on the princi's face as he “ The carriage suggested Flavia. But entered, and thought it best to explain himself her mother took no notice of her. at once. • Tho least we could do, of course, was to 'Ah, you have heard ? Poor man! Ho in bring him here. My husband would not have badly hurt, I fear. Would you like to see allowed him to be taken to the hospital.”. him?" Flavia again fixed her eyes on Giovanni with Presently, if I may,” answered Giovanni. a look of syin pathy, which, however, did not “Wo are all fond of Gouache. How did the convey any very profound belief in her father's accident happen?" charitable intentious. “Faustina ran over him," said Flavia, fixing “I quite understand," said Giovanni, her dark eyes on Giovanni and allowing her how has he been since you brought him here? pretty face to assume an expression of sympathy Is he in any danger? for the sufferer. “Faustina and papa," she " You shall see him at once," answered the adiled. princess, who roso and rang the bell, and then, "Flavia 1 How can you say such things ! as the servant's footsteps were heard outside, exclaimed the princess, who spent a great part crossed the room to nieet him at the door. of her lifo in reprçssing her daughter's manner "Mamua likes to run about," said Flavia, of speech. sweetly, in explanation. Giovanni had risen Well, mamma--it was the carriage of courso. and mado as though he would have been of somo But papa and Faustina were in it. It is the assistance. saino thing. The action was characteristic of the Princess Giovanni looked at Faustina, but her thin: Montevarchi. Au Italian woman would neither 'fresh face expressed nothing, nor did sho show have rung tho bell herself, nor have committed any intention of commenting on her sister's such an imprudence as to turn her back upon explanation. It was the first time he had seen her two daughters when there was a man in the her near enough to notice her, and his attention room. But she was English, and a whole lifowas arrested by something in her looks which time spent among Italians could not extinguish surprised and interested him. It was something her activity ; so she went to the door herself. almost impossible to:olescribe, and yet spreally Faustina's deep eyes followed her mother as present that it struck Sant'Ilario at once, and though she were interested to know the news of found a place in his neniory. In the supersti- Gonache. tions of the far north, as in the half material “I hope he is better," she said, quietly. spiritualism of Polynesia, that look has a meaning “Of course," echoed Flavia. Sogo I. But and an interpretation. With us, the interpre- mamma anuses me so much! She is always in tation is lost, but the instinctive persuasion a hurry.” 66 CG “And B 2 60 66 $ i To be 18 SANT' MARIO Faustina made no answer, but she looked at headache, and nothing to eat, and a general: Sant'Ilario, as though she wondered what he sensation as though somebody had made an thought of her sister. He returned her gaze, ineffectual effort to turn me into a sausage. trying to explain to himself the strangeattraction “ What does the doctor say?" of her expression, watching her critically as he Nothing. He is a man of action. He would have watched any new person or sight. bled me because I had not the strength to : Sho did not blush nor avoid his bold eyes, as ho strangle him, and poured decootfons of boiled would have expected had loc realised that he was grass down my throat because I could not speak. staring at her. He has fantastic ideas about the human body." A few minutes later Giovanni found himself But you will havo to stay here several in a narrar, high room, lighted by one window, clays," said Giovanni, considerably agrused by which showed tho cnornious thickness of the Gouacho's view of his own case. walls in the deep embrasure. The vaulted “Several days! Not even several hours, ife. ceiling was painteil in fresco with a representa- I can help it." tion of Apollo in the act of drawing his how, Things do not go so quickly in Rome. You arrayed for the time being in his quiver, while must be patient." his other garments, of yellow and blue, floated “In order to starve, when there is food as near everywhero save over his body. The floor of as the Corso?” inquired the artist. the room was of red bricks, which had once butchered by a Roman phlebotomist, and been waxed, and tho furniture was scanty, drenched with infusions of hay by the massivo and very old. Anastaso Gouache lay Principessa Montevarchi, when I might be in one corner in a queer-looking bed covered devising incans of being presented to her with a yellow damask quilt the worse for daughter? What do you tako me for? I a century or two of, wear, upon which faded suppose the young lady with the divine eyes is . embroideries showed the Montevarchi arms her daughter, is she not?" surmounted by a cardinal's hat. Upon a chair “ You mean Donna Faustina, I suppose. beside the patient lay the little heap of sinall Yos. She is the youngest, just out of the Sacro belongings he had carried in his pocket when Cuore. She was in the drawing-room when hurt, bis watch and purse, his cigarettes, his I called just now. How did you see her?" handkerchief and a few other trifles, among “Last night, as they brought mo upstairs, which, half concealed by the rest, was the gold I was lucky enough to wake up just as she was pin he had picked up by the bridge on the looking at mo. What eyes ! I can think of previous evening. There was a mingled smell nothing else. Seriously, can you not help nie, of dampness and of stalo tohacco in the to get out of here?" comfortless room, for the windows were closely "So that you inay fall in love with Donna shut, in spite of the bright sunshine that Faustina as as possible, I suppose, Hooded the opposite side of the street. auswerel Giovanni with a laugh. It seems to Gouache lay on his back, his head tied up in me that there is but one thing to do, if you are a bandage and supported by a white pillow, really strong enough. Send for your clotlıes, which somehow conveyed the impression of one get up, go into the drawing-room and thank tho of those marble cushions upon which in old- princess for her hospitality.' fashioned monuments the effigies of the dead are “ That is casily said. Nothing is done in made to lcan in cternal prayer, if not in eternal this house without the written permission of He moved impatiently as the door the old prince, unless I ain much mistaken. opened, and then recognising Giovanni, họ Besides, thero is no bell. I might as well be hailed him in a voice much more lively and under arrest in the guard-room of the barracks. sönörous than might have been expected. Presently the doctor will come and bleed me Yon, prince!" ho cried, in evident delight, again and the princess will send mo some more "What saint has brought you ?" I am not very fat, as it is, "I heard of your accident, and so I came to but another day of this diet will make me. seo if I could do anything for you. How aro diaphanous-I shall cast no shadow. A nico thing, to be caught without a shadow on "As you 800," replied Gouache. “In a parade!” liospitable tomb, with my lead tied up like an I will sce what I can do,” said Giovanni, imperfectly-resurrected Lazarus. For the rest rising. "Probably, the best thing would be to there is nothing the matter with me, except send your military surgeon. He will not be so that they have taken away my clothes, which is tender as the other leech, but he will get you something of an obstacle to my leaving the away at once. My wife wished me to say that house at once. I feel as if I had been in she sympathised, and hoped you might soon bet a revolution and had found myself on the wrong well." side of the barricade-nothing worse than that." Miy homage and best thanks to the princess," "You are in good spirits, at all events. But answered Gouacho, with a slight change of tone, are you not seriously hurt ?'” presumably to be referred to his sense of courtesy Oh, nothing broken collar-bone, some in speaking of the absent laily. where, I believo, and some part of my head So Giovanni went away, promisinig to apud gone. I am not quite sure which, and a bad the surgeon at onco. The latter soon grrived, soon tase. boiled grass. you?" << SANT ILARIO 19 even more ** Gouache, and was easily persuaded to order say that I should forgot my broken bones him home without further delay. The artist- very soon if I might be permitted to paint soldier would not leave the house without Mademoiselle's portrait. am a painter," he thanking his hostess. His uniform had been added, in modest explanation, aleansed from the stains it had got in the acci “Yes," said the princess, “I know. But, dent, and his left arm was in a sling. The really—this is a matter which would require wound op his head was more of a bruise than great consideration and my husband's consent #cut, and was concealed by his thick black and, for the presentháir Considering the circumstances he pre She paused significantly, intending to convey sented a very good appearance. The princess a polite refusal, but Gouache completed the recoived him in the drawing-room, and Flavia sentenco. and Faustina were with her, but all threo wero “For the present, until iny bonos aro mended, now dressed to go out, so that the interview we will not speak of it. When I am well again was necessarily a short one. I will do myself the honour of asking the prince's Gouache made a little speech of thanks and consent myself." täied to forget the decoction of niallows he had Flavia leaned towards her mother and swallowed, fearing lost the recollection should whispered into her ear. The words were quite inpart a tone of insincerity to his expression of audible, and the girls dark eyos turned to gratitude.. He succeeded very well, and after- Gouacho with a wicked laughi in them while warda attributed the fact to Donna Faustina's she was speaking. brown eyos, which were not cast down as thoy Oh, mamma, if you tell papa it is for nothing hade been when Sant'Ilario had called, but he will be quite delighted! appeared, on the contrary, to contemplate the Gouache's lip trembled as lo suppressed a smile, now visitor with singular interest. and the elderly princess's florid cheeks Aushed “I am sure my husband will not approve of | with annoyance. your going so soon,” said tlo princess in some “For thic present,” she said, holding out hor what anxious toues. It was almost the first hand rather coldly, wo will not speak of it. time she had ever known any step of importance Pray let us know of your speedy recovery, to be taken in her house without her husband's Monsieur Gouache." express authority. As the artist took his leavo he glanced once * Madame," answered Gonache, glancing from more at Donna Faustina. Her face was pale and Donna Faustina to his hostess, "I am in despair her eyes flashed angrily. She, too, had hoard at having thus unwillingly trespassed upon your Flavia's stage whisper and was hospitality, although I need not tell you that annoyed than her mother. Gouache went his I would gladly prolong so charming an ex- way toward his lodging in the conipany of the perience, peovided I were not confined to solitude surgeon, pondering on the inscrutable mysterics in & distant chamber. However, sinco our of the Roman household of which he had been regimental surgeon pronounces no fit to go vouchsafed a glimpse. He was in pain from his home, I have no choice but to oboy orders. head and shoulder, but insisted that the walk Believo mo, Madame, I am deeply grateful to would do him good and refused the cab which yourself as well as to the Principe Montovarchi liis companion had brought. A bruken collarfor your manifold kindnosses, and shall cherish bone is not a dangerous matter, but it can be à remembrance of your goodness so long as very troublesome for a while, and the artist was glad to get back to his lodgings and to find With these words Gouacho bowed as though himself comfortably installed in an easy chair lo would be gone and stood waiting for the with something to eat before him, of a more princess's last word. But before her mother substantial nature than the Principossa Montecould speak, Faustina's voico was heard. varchi's infusions of camomilo and mallows. "I cannot tell you how dreadfully we feel pape and I-at having been the causo of such a horrible accident! Is thoro nothing we can do to make you forgot it?" Tho princess stared at her daughter in tho utruost astonishment at her forwardness. She CHAPTER III would not have been surprised if Flavia had WHILE Giovanui was at the Palazzo Monte. beca, guilty of such imprudence, but that varchi, and while Corona was busy with her Faustina should thus boldly address a young dressmakers, Prince Saracinesca was dozing man who had not spoken to her, was such a over the Osservatore Roruno in his study. To shock to hör belief in the girl's manners that tell the truth the paper was less dull than she did not recover fot several seconds. Anastase usual, for there was war and rumour of war appreciated the situation, for as he answered, in its columns. Garibaldi had raised a force ho boked steadily at the mother, althongh his of volunteers and was in the neighbourhood of words were plainly addresscd to the brown. Arezzo, beginning to skiwanish with the outlying eyod beauty. posts of the poptifical army along the frontier: Mademoiselte is too kind. She exaggerates. The old gentleman did not know, of course, Tad yet, sinoe she has put the question, I will that on that very day the Italian Government I live.” 1 20 ...... 5 > SANT' ILARIO CH, was issuing its proclamation against the great nostrils, though pointed and keen. Had the agitator, and possibly if he had been aware of prince had any doubts as to his visitor's identity the incident it would not have produced anythoy would have been dispelled by the man's very, strong impression upon his convictions. great height and immenso breadth of 'shoalder, Garibaldi was a fact, and Saracinesca did not which would have made it hard indeed for him believe that any proclamations would interfere i to disguise himself had 'he wished to do so. with his march unless backed by some more. But though very much surprised, Saracinesca. tangible force. Even had ho known that the had no doubts whatever. The only points that guerilla general had been arrested at Sinalunga were now to him in the figure before him were and put in confinement as soon as the pro- the outward manner and appearance, and the clamation had appeared, the prince would havo dress of a gentleman. foreseen cleafly enough that the prisonor's escape "I trust I am not disturbing you, prince?" would be only a question of a few days, since Tho words were spoken in a deep, clear voice, there were manifold evidences that an under- and with a notable southern accent. standing existed between Ratazzi and Garibaldi “Not at all. I confess I am astonished at of inuch tho same naturo as that which in 1860 seeing you in Rome. Is there anything I can had been maintained botween Garibaldi and do for you? I shall always be grateful to you Cavour during the advance upon Naples. The for having been alive to testify to the falsehood Italian Government kept men under arms to be of that accusation made against my son. Pray ready to take advantage of any successes obtained sit down. Ilow is your Signora ? And the by the Garibaldian volunteers, and at the same children? All well, I hope ? time to suppress the republican tendencios of the “My wife is dead," returned the other, and latter, which broke out afresh with every new the grave tones of his bass voice lent solemnity advanco, and disappearerl, as by magic, under to tlo simple statement. the depressing influence of a forced retreat. "I am sincerely sorry began the prince, The prince knew all these things, and hal but his visiior interrupted himn. reflected upon them so often that they no longer “The children are well. They are in Aquila afforded enough interest to keep him awake. for the present. I have come to establish myself The warm September su streamed into the in Rome, and my first visit is naturally to yourstudy and fell upon the paper as it slowly self, since I havo the advantago of being your slipped over the old gentleman's knees, while cousin." his head sank lower and lower on his breast. "Naturally," ejaculated Saracinesca, though The old enamelled clock upon the chimney. his face expressed considerable surpriso. piece ticked more loudly, as clocks sceni to do “Do not imagino that I am going to imposo when people are asleep and they ure left to myseif upon you as a poor relation, continued their own devices, and a few belated flies chased the other, with a faint smilo. “Fortune has each other in the sunbeams. been kind to me since we met, perhaps as The silence was broken by the entrance of a compensation for the loss suffered in the a servant, who would have withdrawn again death of my poor wifo. I havo a sufficient when he saw that his master was napping, had independence, and can bold my own.” not the latter stirred and raise:1 his head before “I never supposedthe man had time to get away. Then the fellow " You might naturally have supposed that came forward with an apology and presented I had come to solicit your favour, though it is a visiting-card. The princu stared at the bit of not the caso. When wo parted I was an innpasteboard, rubbed his eyes, stared again, and keeper in Aquila. I have no cause to be ashamed then Jaid it upon the table beside him, his of my past profession. I only wish to let you eyes still resting on the name, which seened so know that it is altogether past, and that I intend much to surprise him. Then he told the foot man to resume the position which my great-grandto introduce the visitor, and a few moments' father foolishly forfeited. As you aro the later a very tall man entered the room, liat in present head of the family, I judged that it was • hand, and advanced slowly towards him with my duty to inform you of the fact immethe air of a person who has a perfect right diately. to present himself, but wishes to give his host “By all nicans. I imagined this must be the time to recogniso him. case from your card. Ycu ate entirely in your The prince remenbered the newcomer very rights, and I shall take great pleasure in well. The closely-buttoned frock-coat showed informing everyone of the fact. You are the the man's imposing figure to greater advantage Marchese di San Giacinto, and the inn at Aquila than the dress in which Saracinesca had last no longer exists." seen him, but there was no mistaking the per-, “As these things must be done, once and for sonality. There was tho samo lean but massive always, I have brought my papers to Rome,' face, broadlencd by the high cheekbones and the answered the Marchese. "They are at your prominent ruaro jaw; there wero tle 891910 disposal, for yon certainly have a right to see piercing black eyes, Ast near together under them, if you like. I will recall to your memory eyebrows that met in the midst of the forehead, the facts of our "history, in case you have forthe same thin and cruel lips, and the same gotten them.” strongly-roarked nose, set broadly on at the “I know the story well enough," sajd 17 III SANT' ILARIO 21 " 66 <3 ??) Saracinesca. “Our great-grandfathers were samo for everyono, inukeeper or prince. Ono brothers. Yours went to live in Naples. His take's off one's hat, one speaks quictly, one says son grew up and joined the French against what is agreeable to hear is it not enough?" the King. His lands were forfeited, he married "Quite cnough," replied the prince.fre was and died in obscurity, leaving your father, liis tempted to smile at his cousin's definition of only son. Your father died young, and you manners, though he could see that the man was again are his only son. You married the Signora'quite able to maintain his position. Quito Felicoenough, indeerl, and as for instruction, I am “Baldi," said the Marchese, noulding in con- afraid most of us have forgotten our Latin. firmation of the various statements. You necil have no anxiety on that score, But, “The Signora Folice Baldi, by whom you tell me, how comes it that, having been bred in have owo childrentho south, yon profer to establish yourself in Boys." Rome rather than in Naples? They sity that “Two boys. And the Signora Marchesa, you Neapolitans do not like us." I grieve to bear, is dead. Is that accurate ? “I am a Roman by descent, and I wish to Perfectly. There is one circumstance, con become one in fact," returned the Marchese. siected with our great-grandfathers, which you Besitles," he added, in a peculiarly grave tono have not mentioned, but which I am sure you of voice, "I do not like the new order of things. remember." Indeed, I have but one favour to ask of you, • What is that?" asked the prince, fixing his and that is il grcall one. keen cyes on his companion's face. Anything in my power: It is, only this,” replied San Giacinto, "To present me to the Holy Father as one calmly. My great-grandfather was two years who desires to becomo his faithful subject. older than yours. You know he never meant to Coulil yo'l do so, do you thinki, without any marry, and resigned the title to his younger urcat inconvenience ? brother, who had children already. ife took “Eh! I shall be delightrail! Algeri.!" a wife in his old age, and my grandfather was answered the prince, heartily. "To tell the the son born to him. That is why you are so truth, I was afraid you meant to keep your much older than I, though we are of the same Italian convictions, and that, in Rome, woull generation in the order of descent." be against you, especially in these stormy days. “ Yes," assented the prince. “That accounts But if you will join us heart and sonl you will for it. Will you smoke? be received with open arms. I shall take great Giovanni Saracinesca, Marchese di San pleisure in seeing you make tho acquaintance of Giacinto, looked curiously at his cousin as he my son und his wife. Come and dino this took the proflered cigar. There was sonicthing evening.' abrupt in the answer which attracted his atten "Thank you," said the Marchese. I will tion and rouscd his quick suspicions. He not fail." wondered whether that former exchange of After a few more worils San Giacinto took titles, and consequent exchange of positions, his leave, and the princo conld not but aclmiro were an unpleasant subject of conversation to the way in which this man, who had been the prince. But the latter, as though antici- brought up among peasants, or at best among pating such a doubt in his companion's mind, the small fariners of an ontlying district, assumed at onco returned to the question with the at once an air of perfect equality while allowing boldness which was natural to him. just so much of respect to appear in lois manner “ There was a friendly agreement,” ho said, ins might properly bu shown by a youn, or striking a match and otiering it to the Marchese. member to the hearl of a great house. I have all the documents, and have studied' was gone Saracinesca rang the bell. them with interest. It miglit amuse you to see Pasqualo," he sixil, acadressing tho old them, some day." butler who answered the summons, "that gentl. “I should like to see them, indeed,"answered man who is just gone is my cousin, Don Giovanni San Giacinto. • Thoy inust bo very curions. Saracinesca, who is called Marchese di San As I was saying, I am going to establish myself Giacinto. He will dino here this evening. You in Rome. It seems atrange to mo to be playing will call him Eccellenza, and treat hiin as a the gentleman -it must scen even more gud to member of the family. Go and ask the princess you if she will receive me. It would be truer to say that you have been Pasquale opened his mental cyes very wide as playing the innkeeper," observed the princo, ho bowed and left the room. He had never courteously. “No one would suspect it," he heard of this other Saracinesca, and the appearadded, glancing at his companion's correct anco of a new member of the family upon the attire. scene, who must, from his appearance, have “I have an adaptable nature," skid the been in existence between thirty and forty years, Marchese, calmly. i. Besides, I havo always struck him as astonishing in the oxtreme ; for looked forward to again taking my place in the the old servant had been bred up in the house world. I have acquired a little instruction- from a boy and imagined himself master of all not much, you will say, but it is sufficient as the secrets connected with tho Saracinesca the times go; and as for education, it is the househok. When 10 23 SANT' ILARIO CH. play the «« But He was, indeed, scarcely less surprised than Sant'Ilario stared incredulously at his father, his master, who, although he had been aware and then looked inquiringly at his wife as for some time past that Giovanni Saracinesca though to ask if it were not all a jest. When existed and was his cousin, had never antici- he was assured that the facts were fruet, he pated the ovont of his coming to Rome, and had looked grave and slowly stroked, his pointed oxpected still less that the innkeeper would ever black beard, a gesture which was very unusual assume the title to which he had a right and with him, and always accompanied the deepest part of a gentleman, as he hin self had meditation. expressed it. There was a strange mixture of “There is nothing to be done but to receive holdness and foresight in the way the old prince him into the family," he said at last. had received his new relation. He knew the I do not wholly believe in his good intentions. #trongth of hisown position in society, and that We shall see. I shall be glad to make his the introduction of a humble cousin could not acquaintance." possibly do him harm. At the worst, people “He is coming to dinner." might laugh a littlo among themselves, and The conversation continued for some time, renark that the Marchese must be a nuisance and the arrival of San Giacinto was discussed in to tho Saracinesca. On the other hand, the all its bearings. Corona took a very practical princo was struck from tho first with the view of the question, and said that it was air of self-possession which lie discerned in San certainly best to treat him well, thereby Giacinto, and foresaw that the man would very relieving her father-in-law of a considorable probably play a part in Ronan life. He was a anxiety. He had, indeed, feared lest she inan who inight be disliked, but who could not should resent the introduction of a man who be despised; and since his claims to considera- might reasonably be supposed to have retained tion were undeniably genuine, it seemed wiser à certain coarseness of inanner from his carly to accept him from the first as a member of the surroundings, and he knew that her consent family and unliesitatingly to treat him as such. was all-important in such a case, since sho After all, he demanded nothing to which he had was virtually the mistress of the house. But not a clear right from the moment lie announced Corona regarded tho matter in much the same his intention of taking his place in the world, light as the old gentleman himself, feeling that and it was certainly far wiser to receive him nothing of such a nature could possibly injure cordially at once, than to draw back from the imposing position of her husband's family, acknowledging the relationship because he had and taking it for granted that no one who had been brought up in another spliere. yood blood in his veins could ever behave This was the substance of what Prince Sara. untrageously. Of all the three, Sant'Ilario was cincsca communicated to his daughter-in-law a the most silent and thoughtful, for he feared few minutes later. Sho listened patiently to certain consequences from the arrival of this all he had to say, only asking a question now new relation which did not present themselves and then in order to understand more clearly to the minds of the others, and was resolved to what had happened. She was curious to see bo cautious accordingly, even while appearing the man whose name had once been so strangely to receive San Giacinto with all due cordiality. confounded with her husband's by the machina. Later in tho day he was alone with his father tions of the Conte I)el Ferice and Donna Tullia for a few moinutos. * Mayer, and she frankly confessed her curiosity Do you like this fellow ?” he asked, and her satisfaction at the prospect of meeting abruptly. San Giacinto that evening. IV lile slo Was "No," answered the prince. talking with the prince, Giovanni unexpectedly " Neither do I, though I have not seen him." returned fron his walk. He had turned home. “ We shall see, was the old gentleman's wards as soon as he had sent the military answer. surgeon to Gouache. The evening came, and at tho appointed hour "Well, Giovannino," cried the old gentleman, San Giacinto was announcod. Both Corona and "" the prodigal innkeeper lias returned to the her husband wero surprised at his imposing bosom of the family." appearance, as well as at the dignity and self- “ What innkeeper?” possession he displayed. His southern accent "Your worthy namesake and cousin, Giovanni was not more noticeable than that of many Saracinesca, formerly of Aquila." Neapolitan gentlemen, and his conversation, if “Does Madame Mayer want to prove that it neither very brilliant nor very flucnt, was not is he who has married Corona?" inquired Sant' devoid of interest. He talked of the agri. Ilario with a laugh. cultural condition of the now Italy, and old “No, though I suppose he is a candidate for Saracinesca and his son were both interested marriage. I never was moro surprised in my in the subject. They noticed, too, that during life. His wife is dead. He is rich, or says he is. dinner no word escaped him which could gire He has his card printed in full, 'Giovanni Sara- any clue to his former occupation or position, cinesca, Marchese di San Giacinto,' in the most though afterwards, when the servants were not correct manger. He wears an excellent coat, present, ho alluded more than once, with a frank and announces his intention of being presented sinile, to his experiences as an innkeeper. On to the Pope and introduced to Roman society." tho whole, he soemed modest and reserved, you >> TIT: SANT' ILARIO 23 perfe:tly self-possessert and conscious of his to avoid trouble makes them the most courtoons right to be where he was. among nations, and thoy aro singularly obliging Such conduct on the part of such a man did to strangers when, by conferring an obligation, not appear so surprising to the Saracinesca they are able to make an acquaintance who will household, as it would have seemed to foreigners. help them to pass an idle hour in agreeable San Giacinto had said that he had an adaptablo conversation. They aro equally surprised, character, and that adaptability is one of the whether a stranger suspects them of making most noticeable features of the Italian race. It avances for tho sako of extracting money from is not necessary to discuss the causes of this him, or exprosses resentment at having been peculiarity. They would be incomprehensiblo fraudulently induced to part with any cash. to the foreigner at large, who never has any The beggar in the streot howls like a madman if real understanding of Italans. I do not hesitate you refuse an alnıs, and calls you an idiot to his to say that, without a single exception, overy follow-mendicant if you give him five centimes. foreigner, poet or prose-writor, who has treated The servant says in his heart that his foreign of these people, has more or less grossly mis. employer is a fool, and shods tcars of rage and understood them. That is a sweeping statement, mortification when his shallow devices for petty when it is considered that few men of the cheating are discovered. And yet the servant, highest genius in our century have not at one the beggar, the shopkeeper, and the gentleman, time or another set down upon paper their arc obliging sometimes almost to philanthropy, several estimates of the Italian race. The and are ever ready to make themselves agreeable. requisite for accurately describing people, how. The Marchese di San Giacinto differed froni ever, is not genius," but knowledge of the his rolations, the Saracinesca princes, in that he subject. The poct commonly sees himself in was a full-blooded Italian, and not the result of others, and the modern writor upon Italy is a cosmopolitan race-fusion, like so many of the apt to bolicve that ho can see others in himself. Roman "nobles. He had not the Roman The reflection of an Italian upon the mental traditions, but, on the other hand, he had his retina of the foreigner is as deceptivo as his own full share of the national characteristics, outward image is when seen upon the polished together with something individual which lifter surface of a concave mirror; and, indeed, the him above the common heril in point of character studies of many great men, when thu intelligence and in strength. He was a noticesubject is taken from a race not their own, ahle man; all the more so because, with many.. romind one very forcibly of what may be seen by pleasant qualities, his countrymen rarely contemplating oneself in the bowl of a bright possess that physical and mental combination of silvor spoon. To undorstand Italians a man size, energy, and reserve, which inspires tho. must have been born and bred among them; sort of respect enjoyed by imposing personages. and even then the harder, fiercer instinct, which As ho sat talking with the farnily after dinner dwells in northern blood, may deceive the student on the evening of his first introduction to tho and lead him farastray. The Italian isan exceed- household what passeil his mind and in tho ingly simple creature, and is apt to share tho minds of his hosts can bo easily stated. opinion of the ostrich, who ducks his head and Sant'Ilario, whoso ideas wore moro clear upon believes his whole body is hidden. Foreigners use most subjects than those of his father or his strong language concerning the Italian lie; but wifo, saici to himself that he did not like tho this only proves how extremely transparent the man; that he suspected him, and believed he deception is. It is indeed a singular fact, but had some hidden intention in coming to Romo ; one which may often be observed, that two that it would be wise to watch him perpetually Italians who lio systematically will frequently and to question everything he did; but that ho believe each other, to their own ruin, with was undeniably a relation, possessing every a childliko faith rarely found north of the Alps. right to consideration, and entitled to be treated This seems to me to prove that their dishonesty with a certain familiarity; that, finally and on has outgrown their indolent intelligence; and the wholo, he was a nuisanco, to be bornio with indeed they deceive themselves nearly as often a good grace and a sufficient show of cordiality, as they succeed in deceiving their neighbours. San Giacinto, for his part, was deeply ongaged In a country where a lio casily, fius credenco, in maintaining tho cxact standard of manners lying is not likely to be elevated to the rank of which he knew to be necessary for the occasion, à fine art. I have often wondered how such and his thoughts concerning his relatives wero mon as Cesaro Borgia succeeded in entrapping not yet altogether defined. It was his intention their enemies by snares which a modern to take his place among them, and he was doing northerner would detect from the first and his best to acconi plish this object as speedily laugh to scorn as mere child's play. and quietly as possible. Ho had not supposed There is an extraordinary readiness in Italians that princes and princesses were in any way to fit themselves and their lives to circum- different from other human beings except by stances whenever they can save themselves the accidents of wealth and social position. trouble by doing so. Their constitutions are Master of these two requisitos there was no convenient to this end, for they are temperate in reason why he should not feel as much at most things and do not easily fall into habits home with the Saracinesca as he had felt in the which they cannot chango at will. The desire society of the mayor and municipal conncil of 24 SANT' ILARIO CII. Aquili, who possessed those qualifications also, article of the famous convention between Franco *though in a less degree. The Saracinesca and Italy, ratified in September, 1864, read as probably thought about most questions very follows :- much as he hiniself did, or if there were any Italy engages not to attack the actual ditference in their mode of thinking it was due territory of the Holy Father, and to provent, to Roman prejudice and tradition rather than even by force, all attack coming from outside to any peculiarity inherent in the organisation against such territory.", of the monbers of the higher aristocracy. If Relying upon the observance of this chief he should find himself in any dilemma owing to clause, France had conscientiously executed tho his ignorance of social details he would not condition imposed by the second article, which hesitate to apply to the prince for information, provided that all Treuch troops should be since it was sy no means his fault if he hail withdrawn from the States of the Church. been brought up an innkeeper and was now to The promise of Italy to prevent invasion by ho a nobleman. His immediato object was to force applied to Garibaldi and his volunteers. place himself anong liis cquals, and his next Accordingly, on the 24th of September, 1867, purpose was to marry again, in his new rank, the Italian Government issued a proclamation a woman of good position and fortuno. Of this against the band and its proceedings, and matter he intended to speak to the prince in arrested Garibaldi at Sinalunga, in the neighdue time, when he should have secure the first bouchool of Arozzo. This was the only force requisite to his marriage by establishing himself employed, and it may be believed that tho firmly in society. lle meant to apply to the Italian Government firmly expected that the prince, ostensibly as to the head of the family, volunteers woulu disperse as soon as they fouzd thoroby showing a deference to that dignity, themselves without a leader; and had proper which ho supposeul would be pleasing to the old measures been taken for keeping the general gentlenian ; but he had not forgotten in his in custody this would in all probability have calculations the priile which oll Saracinesca followed very shortly, as his sons, who were must naturally feel in his raco, and which would left at large, clid not possess any of their father's probably induce him to take very great pains in qualitications for leadership. Garibaldi, howfinding a suitable wiſe for San Giacinto rather ever, escaped eighteen days later, and agaiu than perniit the latter to contract a discreditable joined his band, which had meanwhile been alliance, defeated by the Pope's troops in a few small San Giacinto left the house at half-past nine engagements, and had gained one or two o'clock, under the pretext of another engage equally insignificant advantages over the latter. ment, for he did not mean to weary his relations As soon as it was known that Garibaldi with too much of his company in the first wils again at large a simultancous movement instance. When he was gone the three looked began, the numerous (iaribaldian emissories who at each other in silence for some moinents. had arrived in Rome stirring up an attempt at "Ile has surprisingly good manners for an inn- insurrection within the city, while Garibaldi keeper," said Corona at last. “No one will ever himself made a bold dash and seized Monte suspect his former life. But I do not like him. Rotondo, another force at the same time striking • Xor I,” said the prince. at Sutbiaco, which, by a strange ignorance of " Ile wants something," said Sant' Ilario. the mountains, Garibaldi appears to have “And he will probably get it,” he adıled, after believed to be the southern key to the Campagna. a short pausc. • He has a lotermined face.” In consequence of the protestations of the French minister to the court of Italy, and perhaps, too, in consequence of tho approach of a large body of French troops by sca, the Italian Government CHAPTER IV again issued a proclamation against Garibaldi, who, however, remained in his strong position ANASTASE GOUACHE recovered rapidly from his at Monte Rotondo. Finally, on the 30th of injaries, but not so quickly as he wished. There October, the day on which the French troops was trouble in the air, and many of his comrades re-entered Rome, the Italians made a show of were already gone to the frontier wliore the interfering in the Pope's favour, General skirnishing with the irregular volunteers of Menatica authorising the Italian forces to enter Garibaldi's guerilla force had now begun in the Papal States in order to maintain order. earnest. To be confined to the city at such a They did not, however, do more than make time was inexpressibly irksome to the gallant a short advanco, and no active measures were young Frenchman, who had a genuine love of taken; but Garibaldi was routed on the 3rd and fighting in him, and longed for the first sensation 4th of November by the Papal forces, and" his of danger and the first shower of whistling band being dispersed, the incident was at an bullets. But his inactivity was inevitable, and end. But for the armed intervention of France, he was obliged to subniit with the best grace he the result would have been that which actually çould, hoping only that 2!l might not be over came about in 1870, when, the samo Convention before he was well enough to tramp out and being still valid, the French wore prevented by sce como service with his conipanions-in-arnis. their own disasters from sending a force to the The situation was indeed urgent. The first assistance of the Pope. > IV SANT ILARIO 25 as It is not yet time to discuss the question of Montevarchi’s brown eyes, and for lack of the annexation of the States of the Church to any other interest upon which to oxpend the kingdom of Italy. It is sufficient to have his energy, he had so well employed his shown that the movement of 1867 took place time that he was now very seriously in love without any actual violation of the letter of the with that young ladly. . Among her mumerous Convention. The spirit in which the Italian attractions was ono which had a powerful in- Government acted might be criticised at length. fluence on the young artist, namely, the fact It is sufficient, however, to notice that the that she was, according to all human calcula- Italian Government was, as it still is, a parlia- tions, absolutely beyond his reach. Nothing mentary one; and to add that parliamentary had moro charm for Gouache, as for many government, in general, exhibits its weakest gifted and energetic young men than that side in the emergency of war, as its greatest which it must require a desperato effort to get, arivantages are best appreciated in times of if it could be got at all. Frenchmen, as woll peace. In the Italian Parliament of that day, Italians, consiiler marriage so much in the light as in that of the prosent time, there was a pre- of a mere contract which must be settled between ponderance of representatives who considered notarics anıl ratified by parental assent, that to Rome to be the natural capital of the country, love a young girl seems to them like an episodo and who were as ready to trample upon treaties out of a fairy talo, enchantingly novel anıl for the accomplishment of what they believeil altogether delightful. To us, who consider lovo a righteous end, as most parliaments have as a nsual if not an absolutely necessary proeverywhero shown themselves in similar circum- liminary to marriage, this point of view is stances. That majority differed widely, indeed, harilly conceivable; but it is enough to tell in opinion from Garibaldi and Mazzini, but they a Frenchman that you have married your wifo conceived that they had a right to take full because you love her, and not because your advantage of any revolution the latter chanced parents or your circumstances arranged the to bring about, and that it was their duty to match for you, to hear him utter the loudest their country to direct the stream of disorder exclamations of genuino surprise and adinirainto a channel which should lead to the tion, declaring that his ideal of happiness, which aggrandisoment of Italy, by making use of ho considers of course as quite unattainable, Italy's standing army. would be to marry the woman of his affections. The defenılers of the Papal States found Tho immediate result of a stato in which that thomsolves face to face, not with any organised sort of bliss is considered to be generally beyond and disciplined force, but with a horie of brutal tho grasp of hunanity has been to produce tho ruffians and half-grown laels, desperato in that moral peculiarities of the French novel, of delight of unbridled license which has such the French play, and of the French householil, attractions for the mob in all countries; and as it is usually exlibited in books and on the all alike, Zouaves, nativo troops, and French- stage. men, were incensed to the highest degree by Thic artist-Zouave was mallo of determined tho conduct of their enemies, It would be stuff. It was not for nothing that he had won absurd to make tho Italian Government respon. the great prize which brought him to the sible for the atrocious defiling of churches, the Academy in Rome, nor was it out of moro pillago and the shocking crimes of all sorts, romantic idleness that he had thrown over the which marked the advance or retreat of the feeble conspiracies of Maulane Mayer and her Garibaldians; but it is equally absurd to deny set in order to wear a uniform. Ilo hac prothat a majority of the Italians regarded these found convictions, though he was not troubled doings as a means to a very desirablo end, and, with any great number of them. Each new ono if they had not been binlered by the French, which took hold of him marked an epoch in his would have merched a couple of army corps young life, and generally proveel teuacions in in excellent order to tho gates of Rome through proportion as he had formerly regarder it as the channel opened by a mob of lawless insur- absurd; and it was a proof of the sound balanco gents. of his mind that the three or four real con- Anastase Gouache was disgusted with his victions which ho ha accumulated during his state of forced inaction as he paced the crowded short life were in no way contraulictory to each pavement of the Corso every afternoon for three other. On the contrary, cach one seemed closely weeks after his accident, smoking endless bound up with the rest, and appeared to bring cigarettes, and cursing tho fate which kept him a fresh energy to that (lirect action which, with an invalid at home when his fellow-soldiers Anastase, was the only possible result of any wero enjoying themselves aniidst the smell of belief whatsoever. gunpowiler and the adventures of frontier Thero was therefore a goodly store of logio skirmishing. It was indeed bacl "luck, he in his madness, and though, like Childle Harold, thought, to have worn the uniforin during lic hand sighed to many, and at present loved but neaxly two years of perfect health and then to ono, yet he was deterinined, if it were possible, be disabled just wlion the fighting began. He that this loved one should be his; seeing that had one consolation, however, in the midst of to sigh for anything, and not to take it if could be his annoyance, and he made the most of taken, was the part of a boy and not of a strong 'it. Ho had been fascinated by Donna l'austina man. Morcover, although tho social difficulties 26 SANTILARI CH.. # which lay in his way were an obstacle which friends who frequented those various gatherings. would have seemed insurmountable to many, wore of course careful to say whatever was most there were two considerations which gave sure to please their hosts, and after the set Anastase some hope of ultimate success. In speeches were made most of them fell to their the first place Donna Faustina herself was not usual occupation of talking about each other. Indifferent; and, secondly, Anastase was no Gouache was an old friend of the Saracinesca, longer the humble student who had come to und came whenever he pleased ; since his ącoi- Rome some years earlier with nothing but his dent, too, he had become better acquainted pension in his pocket and his talent in his with the Montevarchi, and was always a welcome lingers. He was certainly not of ancient lino- guest, as he generally brought the latest news age, but since he had attained that position of the tighting, as well as the last accounts from which enabled him to be received as an equal in lranice, which he easily got through his friend. the great world, and had by his skill accumu- ship with the young attachés of his embassy; lated a portion of that filthy lucre which is the It is not surprising, therefore, that he should platform whereon society moves and has its have found so many opportunities of meeting exclusive being, he had the advantage of talking Donna Faustina, ospecially as Corona di Sant to Donna Faustina, wherever he met her, in Ilario had taken a great fancy to the young girl spite of hor father's sixty-four quarterings. and invited her constantly to tho house. Nor did those meetings take place only under On the very first occasion when Gouacho the auspices of so much heraldry and blazon, as called upon tho Princess Montevarchi in order will presently appear. to express a vain his thanks for the kindness ho At that period of the year, and especially had received, he found the room hålf full of during such a timo of disturbance, there was no people. Faustina was sitting alone, turning such thing as gaiety possible in Romo. People over the pages of a book, and no one seemed to mot quietly in little knots at each other's houses pay any attention to her. After the usual and talked over the state of the comtry, or speeches to the hostess Gouache sat down besido walked and drove as usual in the villas and on her. Sho raised her brown eyes, recognisce the Pincio. When society cannot be gay it is him, and smiled faintly. very inuch inclined to grow confidential, to pull "What a wonderful contrast you are enjoying, a long face, and to say things which, if uttered Dona Faustina," said the Zouave. above a whisper, would be considered extremely " How so? I confuss it seems monotonous shocking, but which, being communicated, enough. auginented, criticised, and passed about quickly " I mean that it is a great change for you, from without much voise, are considered exceedingly the choir of tho Sacro Cuore, from the peace of interesting, When everyone is supposed to be a convent, to this atınosphere of war. talking of politics it is very easy for everyone Yes ; I wish I were back again." to talk scandal, and to construct neighbourly “You do not like what you have seen of the biography of an imaginary character which world, Malcmoiselle? It is very natural. If shall presently become a part of contemporary the world were always like this its attraction history. On the whole, society would almost would not be dangerons. It is the pomps and us gladly do this as dance. In those clays of vanities that are delightful." which I am speaking, therefore, thero were “I wish they would begin then," answered many places where two or three, and sometimes Donna Faustina with more natural frankness as many as ten were gathered together in than is generally found in young girls of her council, ostensibly for tho purpose of devising education. ineans whereby the Joly l'ather night over “But were you not taught by the good sisters come luis enemies, though they were very that those things are of the devil!" asked ofton engaged in criticising the indecent hasto Couache with a sinilo. exhibited by their best friends in yielding to “Of course. But I'lavia says they are very the wiles of Satan. nice." Thore were several of these rallying pointi, Gouacho imagined that Flavia ought to know, among which may be chiefly noticed the but lie thouglit tit to conceal his conviction. Palazzo Valdarno, the Palazzo Saracinesca, and " You mcan Donna Flavia, your sister, the Palazzo Montevarchi. In the first of these Mademoiselle?” three it may le observed in passing that there was a division of opinion, tho old people being "I suppose you are very fond of her, are you tho most rigid of conservatives, while the not? It must be very pleasant to have a sister children declared as loudly as they dared that so nearly of one's owu ago in the world.' they were for Victor Enmanuel and United “She is mach older than I, but I think we Italy. The Saracinesca, on the other hand, slull be very good friends." were firnily united and deterruined to stand by "Your family must be almost as much the existing order of things. Lastly, the strangers to you as the rest of the world," Montevarchị all took their opinions from tho observed Gouucho. “Of course you have only head of the house, and knew very well that they seen them occasionally for a long time pasta would submit like sheep to be led whichever you are fond of rcading, I sce." way was most agreeable to the old prince. The Ho made this remark to change the subject; " Yey."

IV in her hand, >> SANT' ILARIO 27 and glanced at the book the young girl still held had ever met. When he compared the result, prorluced in his mind with his acourate recolleo. It is a new book," she said, opening the tion of what had passed between thon, he volume at the title-page. "It is Manon Lescaut. laughed at his haste and called himself a fool Flavia has read it-it is by the Abbé Prévost. for yielding to such nonsensical ideas. The Do you know him?" conversation of a young girl, he argned, could Gouache did not know whether to laugh or to only be amusing for a short time. He wondered look grave: what ho shoukl say at their next meeting, sinco “Did your mother give it to you ?” he asked. all such talk, according to his notions, must “No, but she says that as it is by an abbé, inevitably consist of commonplaces. And yet she supposes it must be very moral. It is true at the end of a quarter of an hour of such medi. that it has not the imprimatur, but being by tation he found that he was constructing an a priest it cannot possibly be on the Index. interview which was anything but dull, at least "I do not know,” replied Gouache. “Pré in his own anticipatory opinion. vost was certainly in holy orders, but I do not Meanwhile tho first ten days of October know him, as he died rather more than a passed in comparative quiet. The news of hundred years ago. You see the book is not Garibaldi's arrest produced temporary lull in now. the excitement felt in Rome, although the real "Oh!” exclaimed Donna Faustina, "I thought struggle was yet to come. Peoplo observed to it was. Why do you laugh? Am I very ignorant each other that strange faces were to be seen in not to know all about it?" the streots, but as no one could entor without a -"No, indeed. Only, you will pardon me, proper passport, very little anxiety gained the Mademoiselle, if I offer a suggestion. You see public mind. I am French, and know a little about these Gonache saw Faustina very often during the mattors. You will permit mo ?” month that followed his accident. Such good Faustina opened her brown eyes very wido, fortune would have been impossible under any and nodded gravely, other circumstances, hut, as has been explained, "If I wero you, I would not read that book there were numerous little social confabulations yet. You aro too young. on font, for people were drawn togethor by a "You seem to forget that I am eighteen years vague sense of common danger, and the freold, Monsieur Gouache." quent meetings of the handsome Zonavo with “No, not at all. But five-and-twenty is a the youugest of the Montevarchi passed unbetter age to read such books. Boliove nie,” noticed in the general stir. The old princess he added seriously, “that story is not meant indeed often saw the two together, but partly owing to her English breedling, and partly Fausvina looked at him for a few seconds and because Gouache was not in the least eligible then laid the volume on the table, pushing it or possible as a husband for her daughter, sho away from her with a puzzled air. Gouache attached no inportance to the acquaintanco. was inwardly, much anused at tho idea of The news that Caribaldi was again at large finding himself tho moral preceptor of a young caused great excitement, and every day brought girl ho scarcely knew, in the house of her fresh news of small engagements along the „parents, who passed for the most strait-laced of frontier. Gouache was not yet quite recovered, their kind. A feeling of deep resentment though he felt as strong as ever, and applied against Flavia, however, began to rise bencath every day for leave to go to the front. At last, his first sensation of surprise. on the 2nd of October, the surgeon pronounced “What are books for?” asked Donna Faus- him to be completely recovered, and Anastase tina, with a little sigh. “The good ones are was ordered to leave the city on the following dreadfully dull, and it is wrong to read the morning at daybreak, amusing ones--until one is married. I wonder As he mounted tlic sonbre staircase of the Palazzo Saracinesca on the afternoon previous Gouache did not find any immediato answer, to his departure, the predominant feeling in his and might have been scriously embarrassed had breast was great satisfaction and joy at being not Giovanni Sant'Ilario come up just then. on tho evo of seeing active scrvice, and he Gouache rose to relinquish his seat to the new- hiniself was surprised at the sharp pang he comer, and as he passed before tho table deftly suffered in the anticipation of bidding farewell turned over the book with his finger so that tho to his friends. He knew what friend it was title should not be visible. It jarred disagree- whom he dreaded to leave, and how bitter that abiy on his sensibilities to think that Giovanni parting would be, for which three wecks earlier might see a copy of Manon Lescaut lying by the he could have summoned a neat speech express, elbow of Donna Faustina Montevarchi. Sant' ing just so much of foeling as should be calculated Jlario did not see the action, and probably would to raise an interest in the hearer, and prompted not have noticed it if he had. by just so much delicato regrot as should impart Anastase pondered all that afternoon and part a savour of romand to his march on the next of the noxt morning over his short conversation, day. It was different now. and the only conclusion at which he arrived was Donna Faustina was in the room, as he had that Faustina was the most fascinating girl he reason to expect, but it was several minutes for you." why?"

28 SANT' ILARIO :CH. 66 once before Anastase could summon the determination a little child, and that you were my mother. necessary to go to lior side. She was standing Are you angry still ?" reapthe piano, which faced outwards towards Corona was silent, and her eyes grew, soft the body of tho room, but was screened by again as she looked kindly at the man beside a semicircular arrangement of plants, a novel her. She did not undorstand him, but she įdea lately introduced by Corona, who was knew that he meant to express something which weary of the stiff old-fashioned way of setting was not bad. Gouache waited for her to speak. all tho furniture against the wall. Faustina “ It was not for that I asked you to come was standing at this point, therefore, when with me," she said at last. Gouncle mule towards her, having done homage “I am glad I said it,” replied Gouache. "I am to Corona aid to the other liudies in the room. going a way to-norrow, and it might never have Jis attention was arrested for a moment by the been said. You asked me if I loved her. sight of San Giacinto's gigantic figure. The I trust you. I say, yes, I do. I am going to cousin of the house was standing before Flavia say good-byc this afternoon." Montevarchi, lending slightly towards her and “I am sorry you love her. Is it serious ?” talkiny in low tones. His magnificent pro Absolutely, on my part. Why are you portions made him by far the most noticcable sorry? Is there anything unnatural in it?" person in the room, and it is no wonder that No; on the contrary, it is too natural. Couache paused and looked at him, mentally Our lives are unnatural. You cannot marry observing that the two would make a fine her. It seems brutal to tell you so, but you couple. must know it already." As lhe stood still he became aware that Corona " There was a little boy in Paris, herself was at his side. He glanced at her with Maclame, who did not have enough to eat every something of inquiry in his eyes, and was about day, nor enough clothes when the north wind to speak when she made him a sign to follow blew. But he had a good heart. His namo her. They sat down together in a deserted was Anastase Gouache. corner at the opposite end of the room. “My dear friend,” said Corona, kindly, "the "I have something to say to you, Monsieur atmosphere of Casa Montevarchi is colder than Gouache,” she saill, in a low voice, as she settled the north wind. A man may overcome almost herself against the cushions. "I do not know anything more easily than the old-fashioned that I have any right to speak, except that of prejudices of a Roman prince.” a good friend--and of a woman. You do not forbid me to try?” "I am at your orders, princess." “Would the prohibition make any difference?' • No, I have no orders to give you. I have I am not sure.” Gouache paused and looked only a suggestion to make. I have watched lo: at the princess. No," he said at last, you often during the last month. My advice I am afraid not. begins with a question. Do you love lier?” “In that case I can only say one thing. You Gouache's first instinct was to expross the are a man of honour. Do your best not to annoyance he felt at this interrogation. lle make her uselessly unhappy. Win her if you moved quickly and glanced sharply at Corona's can by any fair means. But she has a heart, velvet eyes. Before the words that were on his and I am very fond of the child. If any harm lips could be spoken le remembered all the comes to her I shall hold you responsible. If secret reverence and respect le had felt for this you love her, think what it would be should shie woman since he had first known her, he re. lovo you and be married to another pan. membered how he has always regarded her as A shado of sadness darkened Corona's brow a sort of goduless, a superior being, at once as she reinembered those terrible months of her woman and angel, placed far beyond the reach own life. Gouacho know what she meant and of niortals like himself. His irritation vanishert was silent for a few moments. as quickly as it had arisen. But Corona hadi "I trust you," said sho at last. “And since seen it. you are going to-morrow, God bless you. You “Are you angry!" she asked. are going in a good causo." “If you know how I worship you, you would She held out her hand as she rose to leavo know that I am not," answered Gouache with him, and ho bent over it and touched it with a stringe sinplicity. his lips, as he would håve kissed the hand of For an instant tlo princess's deep eyes flashed his mother. Then, skirting the little assembly and a dark blush mounted through her olive of people, Anastase went back towards the akin. She crew back, rather proudly. A piano, in search of Donna Faustina. Ho found deļicate, gentle smile played round the soldier's her alone, as young girls are generally to be mouth. found in Roman drawing-roonis, unless there Perhaps it is your turn to be angry, are twoni them present to sit together. Madamc," he said, quietly. “But you need “What have you been talking about with the I would say it to your husband, as princess?"asked Donna Faustina when Gouachte I would say it to you in hio presence. I worship was seated beside her. you. You are the most beautiful woman in the Could you seo from here?" asked Gouache, world, the most nobly good. Everybody knows instead of answering. “I thought the plants it, why should I not say it? I wish I were would have hindered you." > not be. 66 IV SANT' ILARIO 29 66 " "I saw you kiss her hand when you got up, “You are safe liere, my darling--gooed-bye!" and so I supposed that the conversation had " Where are you going? been serious. To the Serristori barracks. God keep you "Less serious than ours must be," replied safo till l come back--goorl.byo!" Anastaso sadly. “I was saying good-byo to “I will go with you," said Faustina, with her, and now a strange look of determination in her angelic "Good-byc? Why------?” Faustina checked faco. herself and looked away to hide her pallor. Gouache smiled, even then, at the mail She felt cold, and a slight shiver passed over thought which presontal itself to the girl's her slender figure. minil. Once moro ho kissed her, and then, sho "Tiam going to the front to-morrow morning." know not how, he was gone. Other persons Tlfere was a long silence, during which the bul come near then, shutting the windows two looked at each other from time to tine, rapidly, ono alter the other, in anticipation of neither fiuding courage to speak. Since Gouache danger fron without. With instinctivo modesty had been in the room it had grown dark, iind as Faustina withdrew her arms from the young yet but one lamp had been brought. Tho young mau's neck and shrank back. In that moment man's eyes sought those ho loved in the dusk, he disappeared in the crowel. and as his hand stole out it niet another, a tender, Faustina stared wildly about her for a few nervous haud, trembling with emotion. They seconds, confused and stunned by the suddendid not heed what wils passing wear them. ness of what bad passed, ahovo all by tho As though their silence wero contagious, the Wrought that the man she loved was gone froin conversation died away and thero was a general her side to meet his death. Then without lull, such as sometimes falls upon an assemblage hesitation she left the rooin. No one hindered of people who have been talking for some time. her, for the Saracinesca men vore gone to see Then, throngh the rleep windows thoro camo to the defences of the house, and Corona was up a sound of distant uproar, mingled with already by the cradle of her chill. No ono occasional sharp detonations, few, indeed, but noticed the slight figure as it slipped through the more noticeable for their rarity. Suddenly the door and was gone in the darkness of the the door of tho drawing-room burst open, and unlighted halls. All was confusion and noise a servant's voice was hearr speaking in a loud and flashing of passing lights as the servants koy, the coarse accents and terrified tone hurried about, trying to obey orders in spite of contrasting strangely with the sounds generally their terror. Faustina glided like a shadow heard in such a place. down the vast staircase, slipped through one of Excellency! Excellency! Thc revolution ! the gates just as the bewildered porter was Garibaldi is at the gates! The Italians are about to close it, and in 4 moment was out in coming! Madonna! Madonna! The revolution, the midst of the multitudo that throngeel the Eccellenza mia /" din streets ---ą mere child and alone, ring a The man was mad with fear. Everyone' revolution in the dark. spoke at once. Somo laughed, thinking the man crazy. Others, who had heard the distant noise from the streets, drew hack and looked nervously towards the door. Then Sant'Ilario's CHAPTER V clear, strong voice, rang like a clarion through tho roon. COUACHE made his way as fast as he coulil to " Bar the gates, Shut the blinds all over the the bridge of Sant'Angelo, but his progress was house-it is of no use to let them break good constantly impeded by moving crowds--bodies windows. Don't stand there shivering like of men, women, and children rushing frantically a fool. It is only a mob." together at the corners of the streets and then Before he had finished speaking, San Giacinto surging onward in the direction of tho resultant was calmly bolting the blinds of tho drawing, procluced by their combined forces in the shock. room windows, fastening each one as stearlily There wils loud and incoherent screaning of and securely as ho had been wont to put up tlo women and shouting of men, out of which shutters of his inn at Aquila in the old days. occasionally a few words could be distinguished, In the dusky corner by tho piano Gouache more often “Viva Pio Nono ! "Viva la and Faustina were overlooked in the general Repubblica !." than anything else. The sceno confusion. There was no time for reflection, of confusion baftled description. A company for at the first words of the scrvant Anatase of infantry was filing out of the castle of Sant' knew that he must go instantly to his post. Angelo on to the bridge, where it was met by Faustina's little hand was still clasped in his, à denso multitude of people coming from the as they both sprang to their feet. Then with opposite direction. A squadron of mounted a sudden movement he clasped her in his arms gendarmes came up froin the Borgo Nuovo wand kissed her passionately. at the same nioment, and half a dozen cabs *“Good-bye--my beloved !" were jammed in between the opposing masses The girl's arms were twined closely about of iho soldiers and the people. The officer at him, and her eyes looked up to his with a wild the head of the column of foot-soldiers loudly entreaty. urged the crowel to mako way, and the latter, > or 30 SANT' ILARIO CH. consisting chiefly of peaceable but terrified them by God against the living death they call citizens, attempted to draw back, while the pleasure, which is doled out to them by the weight of those behind pushed them on. devil ; in which there are quiet dwellings and Gouache, who was in the front of the throng, noisy places of public gathering, fair palaces and was allowed to enter the file of infantry, in loathsome charnel-houses, where the dead are virtue of his uniform, and attempted to get heaped together, cvon as our dead sins lio ghastly through and make his way to the opposite and unburied in that dark chamber of the soul, bank. But with the best efforts he soon found whose gates open of their own selves and shall himself unable to move, the soldiers being not be scaled while there is lifo in us to suffer. wedged together as tightly as the people. Dost thou boast that thou knowest the heart of Presently the crowd in the piazza seemed to woman? Go to, thou more than fool. The give way and the column began to advance heart of woman containeth all things, good and again, bearing. Gouache backwards in the evil; and knowest thou then all that is? direction he had come. He managed to get to Donna Faustina was no angel. She had not the parapet, however, by edging sideways that lofty calmness which we attribute to the through the packed ranks. angolic character. She was very young, utterly “Give me your shouldor, comrade!” he inexperienced and ignorant of tho world. The shouted to the man next to him. The follow idea which over-towers all other ideas was the braced himself, and in an instant the agile, first which had taken hold upon her, and under Zouave was on the narrow parapet, running its strength sho was like a flower before the along as nimhly as a cat, and winding himself wind. She was not naturally of the heroic past the huge statues at every half-dozen steps. typo either, as Corona d'Astrardente had He jumped down at the other end and ran for been, and perhaps was still, capable of the Borgo Santo Spirito at the top of his speed. sacrifice for the ideal of duty, able to suffor The broad space was almost deserted, and in torment rather than debase herself by yieldthree minutes he was before the gates of tho ing, strong to stem the torrent of a great barracks, which were situated on the right- passion until she had the right to abandon hand side of the street, just beyond the College herself to its nighty flood. Faustina was of the Penitentiaries and opposite the church of a younger and a gentler woman, not knowing San Spirito in Sassia. what she did from the moment lier hoart began Meanwhilo Donna Faustina Montevarchi was to dictate her actions, willing, abovo all, to alone in the streets. ln desperate emergencies take the suggestion of her soul as a command, young and nervously-organised people most and, because she knew 10 evil, rejoicing in an commonly act in accordance with the dictates abandonment which might well have terrifiod of the predominant, passion by which they are one who knew the world. influenced. Very generally that passion is She already loved Anastase intensely. Under terror, but when it is not, it is almost impos- the circumstances of his farcwell, the startling sible to calculate the consequences which may effect of the announcement of a revolution, the follow. When the whole being is dominated necessity under which, as a soldier, ho found by love and by the greatest anxiety for the himself of leaving her instantly in order to face safety of the person loved, the weakest woman a roal danger, with his first kiss warm upon her will do deeds which might make a brave man lips, and with the frightful conviction that if he blush for his courage. This was precisely loft her it might be the last- under all the Faustina's case. emotions brought about by these things, half If any man says that he understands women mad with love and anxiety, it was not altogether he is convicted of folly by his own speech, sceing wonderful that she acted as she did. She could that they are altogether incomprehensible. Of not have explained it, for the impulse was so men, it may be sufficient for general purposes to instinctive that she did not comprohend it, and say with David that they are all liars, even though the deod followed so quickly upon the thought we allow that they may be all curable of the vice that there was no time for reflection. She fled of falsehood. Of women, however, there is no from the room and from the palace, out into general statement which is true. The one is the street, wholly unconscious of danger, like brave to heroism, the next cowardly in a degree a creature in a dream. fantastically comic. The one is honest, tho Tho crowd which hal impetled Gouache's other faithless ; the one 'contemptible in her progress was already thinning when Faustina narrowness of soul, the next supreniely noble reached the pavement. She was born and bred in broad truth as the angels in heaven ; the one in Rome, and as a child, before the convent trustful, the other suspicious ; this one gentle days, had been taken to walk many a time, in as a dove, that one grasping and venomous as the neighbourhood of St. Peter's, She knew a strong serpent. The hearts of women are as well enough whero the Serristori barracks were the streets of a great town--some broad and situated, and turned at once towards Sant' straight and clean ; some dim and narrow and Angelo. There were still many people about: winding; or as the edifices and buildings of most of them either hurrying in the direction that samo city, wherein there are holy temples, whence the departing uproar still proceeded, or at wbich men worship in calm and peace, and running homewards to get out of danger, Bew dens where men gamble away the souls given noticed her, and for some time no one hindered arms. SANT' ILARIO 3.1 hor progress, though it was a strange sight to rau like the wind along the pavement it had see a fair young girl, dressed in the fashion of taken the soldier so long to traverso. Like the time which so completely distinguished her a fitting bird she sped over the broad space from Ronan women of lower station, running beyond and up the Borgo Nuovo, past the long at breathless'speed through the dusky streets. low hospital, wherein the sick and dying lay Suddenly she lost her way. Coming down in their silence, tended by the patient Sisters the Via de Coronari she turned too soon to the of Mercy, whilo all was in excitement without, right, and found herself in the confusing byways The young girl ran past the corner. A Zouave which form a small labyrinth around the church was running before her towards the gate of the of San Salvatore in Lauro. Sho had entered barrack where a sentinel stood motionless under a blind alley on the left when she ran against the lamp, his grey hood drawn oyor his head two men, who unexpectedly emerged from one and his rifle erect by his shoulder. of those underground wine-shops which are At that instant à terrific oxplosion rent the numerous in that reighbourhood. They were air, followed a moment later by the dull crash talking in low and earnest tonos, and one of of falling fragments of masonry, and then by them staggered backward as tho young girl a long thundering, rumbling sound, dreadful to rushed upon him in the dark. Instinctively the hear, which lasted soveral minutos, as the ruins man grasped her and held her tightly by the continued to fall in, heaps upon heaps, sending immense clouds of thick dust up into the night “Where aro you running to, my beauty ?” ho! air. Thon all was still. asker, as she struggled to get away. The little piazza before San Spirito in Sassiu “Oh, let mo go! let me go!” she cried in was half filled with masses of stone and brick. agonised tones, twisting her slender wrists in work and crumbling mortar. A young girl lav his firm grip. The other man stood by, watching motionless upon her face at tho corner of tlo the scene. hospital, her white hands stretched out towards “Better let her go, Peppino," he said. “Don't the man who lay dead but a fow foot before her, you see sho is a lady?" crushed under a great irregular niound of stones " A lady, eh?" echoed the other. " Where and rubbish. Beneath the central hcap wlery are you going to, with that anyol's face ?” the barracks had stood lay the bodies of the "To the Serristori barrack," answered poor Zouaves, deop buricd in wreck of the main Taustina, still struggling with all her night. building, the greater part of which had fallen At this announcement both men laughieci cross the side street that passus between the loudly and glanced quickly at each other. They Penitenzieri and tho Serrisiori. All was still seemed to think the answer a very good joko. for many minutos, while the soft light streanied “If that is all, you may go, and tho devil from thio high windows of the hospital, and accompany you. What say you, Gaetano ?” faintly illuminated sone portion of the hitlevus Then they laughed again. "Tako that chain and brooch as a ricordo Very slowly a few stragglers canie in sights just for a souvenir," said Gaetano, who then then moro, and then by degrees a great dark hinself tore off the ornaments while the other crowd of awestruck people were collected to. held Faustina's hands. gothor and stood afar off, fearing to come near “You are a pretty girl indeed!" ho cried, lest the ruins shoull still contimo falling, looking at her prile face in the light of the filthy Presently the door of the hospital opened, and little red lamp that hung over the low door of a party of nen in grey blouses, headed by three the wino-shop. “I never kissed a lady in my or four gentlenen in black coats--ono, indecd, life.” was in his shirt-sleeves-emerged into the silent With that he grasped her delicato chin in his street and went straight towards the scono of foul hand and bent down, brivging his grimy the disaster. They carried lanterns and a couplo faco close to hers. But this was too much. of stretchers such as are used for bearing thu Though Faustina had hitherto fought with all wounded. It chanced that the straight lino her natural strength against the ruthians, there they followed from the door did not lead them was a rescrvod force, almost superhuman, in to where the girl was lying, and it was not until hor slight frane, which was suddenly roused by after a long and nearly fruitless search that thuy the threatened outrage. With & piercing turned back. Two soldiers only, and both deuc, shriek slie sprang backwards and dashed herself could they find to bring back. The rost were freo, sending the two blackguards recling buried far beneath, and it would be the work into the darkness, Then, like a flash she of many hours to extricate the bodies, even with was gone. By chance she took the right a largo force of men. turning, and in a moment moro found lierself As the littlo procession turned sadly back, in the Via di Tordinond, just opposite the they found that the crowd had advanced entrance of the Apollo theatre. The torn white cautiously forward, and now filled the street. Handbills on the wall, and the projecting shed In the foremost rank a little circle stood about over the doors told her where she was. a dark object that lay on the ground, curious, By this time the soldiers who had intercepted but too timid to touch it. Gouache's passage across the bridge, as wofl as "Signor Professore," said one man in a low the defiso crowd, had disappoarcd, and Faustina voice, there is a dead woman. scene.

32 SANT' ILARIO CH. The physicians came forward and beut over companios of men paraded the streets, shouting the body. One of them shook his head, as the their crics of “Viva Garibaldi, Viva la liherta! bright light of the lantern fell on her face while A few cried "Viva Vittorio !” and “ Viva he raised the girl froin the ground. l'Italia !” But a calm observer--and there "She is a lady," said one of the others in were many such in Rome that night-could a low voice. casily see that the demonstration was rather in The men brought a stretcher and lifted the favour of an anarchic republic than of the girl's body gently from the ground, scarroly Italian monarchy. On the whole, the population daring to touch her, and caring anxiously but showed no sympathy with the insurrection. It yet in wonder at the white face. When she is enough to say that this tiny revolution broko was laid upon the coarse canvas there was out at dusk and was entirely quelled before nine a moment's panse. The crowd pressed closely o'clock of the famo evening. The attempts about the hospital men, and tho yellow light macle were bold and desperate in many cases, of tho lanterns was reflected on many strange but were supported by a small body of men faces, all bent eagerly forward and down to only, the populace taking no active part in what get a last sight of the lead girl's features. was clone. Tad a real sympathy existed between “Andiamo," said me of the physicians in tho lower classes of Romans and the Garibaldians a quiet, sad voice. The bearers took up the the result could not have been doubtful, for the dead Zouaves again, the procession of death vigour and energy displayed by the rioters entered the gates of the hospital, and the heavy would inevitably have attracted any similarly doors closed behind like the portals of a tomb). disposed crowd to join in a fray, when the The crowd closed again and pressed forward weight of a few hundreds more would hago to the ruins. A few gendarmes had come 11), turned the scale at any point. Thero was not and very soon a party of labourers was at work a French soldier in the city at the time, and of plearing away tho lighter rubbish wer the tho Zouaves and native troops a very large part Lirid glare of pitch torches stuck into the cre- were employed upon the frontier. Rome was vices and cracks of the rent walls. The devilish saved and restored to order by a handful of deed was none, hut by a providential accident soldiers, who were obliged to act at inany points its consequences had been less awful than might simultaneously, and tho insignificance of the have been anticipated. Only one-third of the original movement may be determined from this ning had actually exploded, and only thirty fact. Zouaves were at the time within the building: It is true that of the two infernal schemes, “ Did you see her face, Caetano?" asked a plotted at once to destroy the troops in a body rough fellow of his companion. They stood ind to strike terror into the inhabitants, ono together in a dark corner a littlo aloof from the failed in part and the other altogether. If the throug of people. whole of the gunpowder which Giuseppo Monti No, but it must have been sle. I ain glad and Gaetano Tognetti had placed in the mino I have not that sin on my soul." under the Serristori barracks had exploded, “You are a fool, Gaetano. What is a girl tu instead of only one-third of the quantity, a cona couple of hundred soldiers ? Lesides, if you siderable part of the Borgo Nuovo would have had held her tight she would not have got here been destroyel; and even the disaster which in time to be killed." actually occurred would have killed many "Eh--but a girl! The other vagabonds, at hundreds of Zouaves if these bad chanced to be least, we have despatched in a good cause. indoors at the time. But it is impossible to Viva la libertat ! " calculate the damage and loss of lifo which “ Hush! There are the gendarnies! This would have been recorlord bad the castle of Sant'Angelo and the adjacent fortifications So they disappeared into the darkness wlence been blown into the air. A huge mine had been they had come. laid and arranged for firing in the vaults of ono It was not only in the Borgo Nuovo that thero of the bastions, but the plot was betrayed at was confusion and consternation. Tho first the very last moment by one of the conspirators. signal for the outbreak had been given in the I may add that these men, who were tried, and Piazza Colonna, where bombs had been exploded. condomed only to penal servitudo, wero Attacks were niade upon the prisons by bamls liberatel in 1870, throe years later, by the Italian of those sinister-looking, unknown men, who for Government, on the ground that they were merely soveral days had been noticed in various parts political prisoners. The attempt in which they of the city. A compact mob invaded the capitol, had been engaged would, howover, even in time arnied with better weapons than mobs generally of declared war, have been regarded as a crimo find ready to their hands. At the Porta San against the law of nations. Paolo, which was rightly judged to betone of the Rome was inmediately declared undor a state weakest points of the city, a furivus attack was of siege,'aud patrols of troops began to parade marle from withont by a hand of Garibaldians, the streets, sending all stragglers whom they who had crept np nour tho walls in various met to their homes, on the admirable principle disguises during the last two days. More than that it is the duty of every man who finds him. one of the harracks within the city ware self in a riotous crowd to leavo it instantly assaulted simultaneously, and for a short time nuless he can do sunothing towards restoring" 66 way!"

" WO SANT' ILARIO 33 ordor. Persons who found themselves in other passing her arm affectionately through her huspeople's houses, however, had some difficulty in band's and leaning her check on his shouklor. at once returning to their own, and as it has “He is a fine baby," replied Giovanni, his voice been seen that the disturbance began precisely expressing more satisfaction than his words. at the time silected by society for holding its “He will look like my father when ho grows confabulations, there were many who found up.' themselves in that awkward situation. I would rather by should look like you," As the sounds in the street subsided, the said Corona. excitement in the drawing-room at the Palazzo “If he could look like you, dear, there would Saracinesca dininished likewise. Several of be sono use in wishing. those pxesent amounod their intention of de Then they both gazed for some senonds at the partinig at once, but to this the old prince swarthy littlo boy, who lay on big pillows, his malle serious objections. The city was not arms thrown back abovo liis head and his two safe, he said. Carringes might be stopped at little fists tightly clenched. The rich blood any moment, and even if that did not occur, softly coloured the child's dark checks, and the all sorts of accidents might arise from the black lashes, already long, like his mother's. lorses shying at the noises, or running over gavo il singularly expressive look to the small people in the crowds. Ho had his own views, lace. and as he was in his own houso it was not easy Giovanni tenderly kissed his wife and then to dispute then. they softly left the room. As soon as they “The gates are shut,” he said, with a cheerful were outside Sant'Ilario's thoughts returned largh, "and none of you can get out at present. to Faustina. As it is nearly dinner-timo you must all dine “She was certainly not in the drawing-room," with me. It will not be a banquet, but I can he sail, “I am quite sure. It was her mother givo you something to eat. I hope nobody is who asked for her and everybody heard tho gone already." question. I dare not go back without her." Everyonc, at these words, looked at every. They stopped together in the corridor, looking body else, as though to see whether anyone at each other with grave faces. were missing "This is very serious," said Corona. “I saw Monsieur Gouache go out," said Flavia must search the house. Send the men. I will Montevarchi. tell tho wonien. We will meet at the head of "Poor fellow !” exclaimed the princess, her the stairs." mother. "I hope nothing will happen to him!” Five minutes later, Giovanni returned in She paused a moment and looked anxiously pursuit of his wife. round the room. “Good Hcavens!" she cried “She has left the house,” he said, breathsuddenly “ where is Faustina ?” lessiy. "The porter saw her go out." “She must have gone out of the room with “Good heavens! Why did he not stop her?” my wife," said Sant'Ilario, quietly. “I will cried Corona. yo and see.” “ Because he is a fool!" answered Sant' The princess thought this explanation per- Ilario, very pale in his anxiety. “She must fectly natural and waited till he should return. have lost her head and gone home. I will tell He did not come back, however, so soon as her mother." might have been expected. He found his wife When it was known in the drawing-room that just leaving the nursery. IIer first impulso had Donna Faustina Montevarchi had left tho palaco been to go to the child, and having satisfied alone and on foot everyone was horrorstruck. herself that he had not been carried off by The princess turned as white as death, though, a band of Garibaldians, but was sound asleep in she was usually very red in the face. She was his cradle, she was abont to rejoin her guests. a brave woman, howover, and did not waste * Where is Faustina Montevarchi ?" asked words. Giovanni, as though it were the most natural “I must go home at once," said she. “ Please question in the world. order my carriage and have tho gates opened. “Faustina ?” repeated Corona. “ In the Giovanni obeyed silently, and a fow minutes drawing-room, to be sure. I have not seen later the princess was descending the stairs, her." accompanied by Flavia, who was silent, a “She is not there,” said Sant'Ilario, in a more phenomenon seldom to bo recorded in connecanxious tone. “I thought she had come here tion with that vivacious young lady, Giovanni with you." went also, and his cousin, San Giacinto. She must be with the rest. You have over "If you will permit me, princess, I will go looked her in the crowd. Come back with me with you," said the latter as they all reached and see your son-he does not seem to mind the carriage. "I may be of some use." revolution in the least !" Just as they rolled out of tho deep archway, Giovanni, who had no real doubt but that the explosion of tho barracks rent the air, tho Fauština was in the house, entered the nursery tremendous crash thundering and echoing with his wife, and they stood together by the through the city. The panes of the carriagechild's cradle. windows rattled as though they would break, • Is he not beautiful ?" exclained Corona, and all Rome was eilunt while one might count 34 SANT ILARIO CH & score. Then the horses plunged wildly in the “Does it strike you that we have undertaken traces and the vehicle struck heavily against rather a difficult mission!” he askod. one of the stone pillars which stood before the “A very difficult one," answered San Giacinto. entrance of the palace. The four persons insido * Rome is not the largost city in the world, could hear the coachman shouting. but I have not the slightost idea where to look "Drive on!"oried San Giacinto, thrusting his for that child. She çertaiuly loft our house." hcad out of the window. She certainly has not returned to her owu. .“ Eccellenza began the man in a tone Between tho two, practically, there lies the of expostulation. whole of Rome. I think the best thing to do Drive on !" shouted San Giacinto, in a voice will be to go to the police, if any of them can be that made the follow obey in spite of his terror. found." He had never heard such a voice before, 80 "Or to the Zonaves,” said San Giacinto. deep, so strong and so savage. Why to tho Zouaves ? I do not understand They reached the Palazzo Montevarchi with- you." out encountering any serious obstacle. In a few “ You are all so accustomed to being princes minutes they were convinced that Donna that you do not watch each other. I have dono Faustina had not been heard of there, and nothing but watch you all the time. That a council was held upon the stairs. Whilst young lady is in love with Monsieur Gouache." they were deliberating, Prince Montevarchi Keally !" exclaimed Sarit Ilario, to whom came out, and with him his eldest son, Bellegra, the idea was as novel and incrediblo as it could a handsoine man about thirty years old, with have been to old Montevarchi himself, "really, blue eyes and a perfectly smooth fair beard. you must be mistaken. The thing is impos- Ho was more calm than his father, who spoke sible.' excitedly, with many gesticulations. “Not at all. That young man took Donna " You have lost Faustina !" cried the old man Faustina's hand and held it for some time thero in wild tones. “ You huve lost Faustina ! by the piano while I was shutting the windows And in such times as theso! Why do you in your drawing-room.” San Giacinto did not stand thero? Oh, my daughter ! my daughter! tell all he had scen. I have so oflen told you to be careful, "What?" cried Sant'Ilario, " You are inad Guendalina-move, in the name of God.--the -it is impossible !" child is lost, lost, I tell you! Have you no “On tho contrary, I saw it. A moment later heart? no feoling? Are you a mother? Signori Gouacho left the room. Donna Faustina must miti, I am desperate!" have goue just after him. It is my opinion that And indeed he seemed to be, as he stood she followed hini." wringing his hands, stamping his foet, and Beforo Sant'Ilario could answor, a small vociferating incoherently, while the tears began patrol of foot-gendarmes came up, anu perempto flow down his cheeks. torily ordered the two gentlomen to go home. “We are going in search of your daughter," Sant' Ilario addressed the corporal in charge. saill Sant' Ilario. Pray calm yourself. She He stated his name and that of his cousiv. will certainly be found.” "A larly has been lost," he then said. Perhaps I had better go too,” suggested is Donna Faustina Montevarchi- a young lady, Ascanio Bellogra, rather timidly. But his very fair and beautiful. She left iho Palazzo father threw.his arnis rounni him and held him Saracinesca alone and on foot half an hour ago, tightly. and has not been heard of. Be good enough to Do you think I will lose another chilil ?” ho inform the polico you meet of this fact, and to cried. "No, no, -iglio mio--you shall say that a large reward will be paid to anyone never go out into the midst of a revolution." who brings her to her father's house--to this Sant Ilario looked on gravely, though he palace here." inwardly despised tho poor old man for his After a few more words the patrol passed on, weakness. San Giaciuto stood against the wall leaving the two cousins to their own devices. waiting, with a grim sniile of amusenient on his Sant'Ilario was utterly annoyed at the view face. He was measuring Ascanio Bollegra with just presented to him, and could not believe the his eye and thought he wouid not care for thing true, though ho had no other explanation his assistance. The princess looked scornfully to offct. at her husband and son. “It is of no use to stand here doing nothing," “We are losing time,” said Saist' Ilario at said San Giacinto rather impatiently. “There last to his cousin. "I promise you to bring youlis another crowd co.ning, too, and we shall be your daughtor," he added gravely, turning to delayed again. I think we had better separate. the princess. Then the two went a way together, I will go one way, and you take the other. leaving Prince Montevarchi still lamenting him "Where will you go?” asked Sant Ilario. self to his wife and con. Flavia had taken 10 " You do not know your way aboutpart in the conversation, having entered the "As slio may be anywhere, wo inay find ker: hall and gone to her rountat once. anywhere, so that it is of no importance whether The cousing left the palaco together aud walkol I know the names of the streets or not. You a lituie way down the street before either spoke. bad bust think of all the houses to which shri Then Sant Ilario stopped short. might havo gone, among her friends. You know " Sho SANT ILARIO 35 > go next them better than I do. I will beat up all the “What do you want?” he inquired roughly, streets between here and your house. When on seeing that admittance had not been asked I am tired I will go to your palace. for a sick or wounded person. “I am afraid you will not find her," replied “I want to speak with the surgeon in charge," Sant Ilario. *But we must try for the sake of replied San Giacinto. her poor mother." "He is busy," said the man rather donbtfully. “It is a question of luck," said the other, and "Who are you? they separated at once. “A friend of one of the persons just killed," San Giacinto turned in the direction of the They are dead. You had better wait till crowd which was pouring into the street at some morning and come again," suggested the porter. distanou farther on. As he approached, he “But I want to be sure that it is my friend heard the name “Serristori” spoken frequently who is dead.” in the hum of voices. "Then why do you not give your name? “What about the Sorristori ?” he asked of Porhaps you are a Garibaldian. Why should the first he met. I open? “Have you not heard?” cried the follow. I will tell the surgeon my name, if you will “It is blown up with gunpowder! There are at call him. There is something for yourself. Tell least a thousand dead. Half the Borgo Nuovo him I am a Roman prince, and must see him for is destroyed, and thoy say that the Vatican will a moment." “I will sce if he will come," said the man, The man would havė run on for any length of shutting the panel in San Giacinto's face. His tire, but San Giacinto had heard enough and footsteps echoed along tho pavement of the wide dived into the first by-way he found, intending hall within. It was long before he came back, to escape the throng and make straight for the and San Giacinto had leisure to reflect upon the barracks. He had to ask his way several timos, situation. and it was fully a quarter of an hour before ho Ho had very little doubt but that the dead reached the bridge. Thence he easily found woman was no other than Donna Faustina. By the scene of the disaster, and cane up to the a rare chance, or rather in obedience to an hospital of Santo Spirito just after the gates irresistible instinct, ho had found the object of had closod behind the bearers of the dead. He his search in half an hour, whilo his cousin was mixed with the crowd and asked questions, fruitlessly inquiring for the missing girl in the learning very soon that the first search, made opposito direction. He had been led to the by the people from the hospital, hal only conclusion that she had followed Gouache by brought to light the bodies of two Zouaves and what he had seen in the Saracinesca's drawing. room, and by a process of reasoning too simple “And I did not see her," said the man who to suggest itself to an ordinary member of was speaking, “but they say she was a lady and Roman society. What disturbed him most beautiful as an angel." was the thought of the consequences of his "Rubbish !” exclaimed another. "She was discovery, and ho resolved to conceal the girl's a little sewing woman who lived in the Borgo name and his own if possible. If she were Vecchio. And I know it is true bocause her indeed dead, it would be wiser to convey her innamorato was one of the dead Zouaves they body to her father's house privately; if she picked up: were still alive, secrecy was doubly necessary. “I don't believe there was any woman at all," In either case it would be utterly impossible to said a third. “What should a woman be doing account to the world for the fact that Faustina at the barracks?" Montevarchi had been alone in the Borgo Nuovo, “She was killed outside," observed the first at such an hour; and San Giacinto had a lively speaker, a timid old man. At least, I was interest in preserving the good reputation of told so, but I did not see her. Casa Montevarchi, since he had been meditating “It was a woman bringing a baby to put into for some timo past a union with Donna Flavia. the Rota,"* criod a shrill-voiced washerwoman. At last tho panol opened again, and when “She got the child in and was running away, the porter had satisfied himself that the when the place blow up, and tho devil carried gentleman was still without, a little door in her off. And serve her right for throwing away the heavy gato was cautiously unfastened and her baby, poor little thing !” San Giacinto went in, bonding nearly double to In the light of these various opinions, most of pass under the low entrance. In the great which supported the story that some woman vestibule he was immediately confronted by the had been carried into the hospital, San Giacinto surgeon in charge, who was in his shirt sleeves, determined to find out the truth, and boldly but had thrown his coat over his shoulders and rang the bell. A panel was opened in the door, held it together at the neck to protoct himself and the porter looked out at the surging crowd. from the night air. San Giacinto begged him to retire out of hearing of the porter, and the * Tlie Rota was a revolving box in which foundlings two walked away together. were formerly placed. The box turned round, and the “ There was å lady killed just now by the infant was taken inside and cared for. It atanils at the there not ? gate of the Santo Spirito Hospital, and is still visible, explosion, was inquired San Chough no longer in use. Giacinto. one woman. << > 36 SANT' ILARIO CH. 80. “She is not dead," roplied the surgeon. a state of revolution, and that many suspicious “Do you know her?" persons were likely to gain access to publio "I think so. Had she anything about her to buildings ou false pretencos. prove her identity ?". "Very, well,” lo saiu quietly. “You are “The letter M embroidered on her handker- ' not afraid of dead men, I see. Le good enough chief. That is all I know. She has not been to wait a moment here--no one will see you, here a quarter of an hour. I thought she was and you will not be recognised. I will go and dead myself when we took her up. see that there is nobody in the way, and you "Sho was not under the ruins ?" shall havo a sight of the young lady." “ No. She was struck by some small stono, His companion nodded in assent, and the I fancy. The two Zonaves were half buried, surgeon went out through the narrow door. and aro quito dead." San Giacinto was surprised to hear tho heavy May I see theni? I know many in the key turned in the lock and withdrawn, but corps. They might be acquaintances. iminediately accounted for the fact on the • Certainly. They are close by in the theory that the surgeon wished to prevent mortuary chamber, unless they have been put anyone from finding his visitor lest the secret in the chapel. should be divulged. He was not a nervous The two men entered the urim place, which man, and had no especial horror of being left was dimly lighted by a lantern hanging over- alone in a mortuary chamber for a few minutes. head. It is unnecessary to dwell upon the lle looked about him, and saw that the room ghastly details. San Giacinto bent down was high and vaulted. One window alone gave curiously and looked at the dead men's faces. air, and this was ten feet from the floor and He knew neither of them, and told the surgeon heavily ironed. He reflected with a smile that if it pleased the surgeon to leave him there he “Will you allow me to see the lady,” he could not possibly get out. Neither his size asked. nor his phenomenal strength could assist him in Pardon me, if I ask a question," said the the least. There was no furniture in the place. surgeon, who was a man of middle age, with Half-a-dozen slabs of slate for the bodies were a red beard and keen grey eyes. “ To wliom built against tho wall, solid and immovable, and have I the advantage of speaking?" the door was of the heaviest oak, thickly Signor Professore," replied San Giacinto, studded with huge iron nails. If the dead inen “I must tell you that if this is the lady had been living prisoners their place of confine- I suppose your patient to be, the honour of one ment could not have been more strongly conof the greatest families in Ronie is concerned, trived. and it is important that strict secrecy should be San Giacinto waited a quarter of an hour, and at last, as the surgeon did not return, he sat * The porter told me that you were a Rom'ın down upon ono of the marble slabs, and, being prince," returned the surgeon rather bluntly. very hungry, consoled himself by lighting a “But you speak like a southerner.” cigar, while he meditated upon the surest moans “I was brought up in Naples. As I was of conveying Donna Faustina to her father's saying, secrecy is very important, and I can house. At last he began to wonder how long assure you that you will earn the gratitude he was to wait. of many by assisting me." “ I should not wonder,” he said to himself, “Do you wish to take this lady away at once?" “if that long-eared professor had taken me for “Heaven forbid ! Her mother and sister a revolutionist.' shall come for her in half an hour." He was not far wrong, indeed. The surgeon The surgeon thrust his hands into his pockets had despatched a messenger for a couple of genand stood staring for a moment or two at the darmes, and had gone about his business in bodies of the Zouaves. the hospital, knowing very well that it would “I cannot do it," he said, suddenly looking take some time to find the police while the riot up at San Giacinto. I am master here and I ain lasted, and congratulating himself upon having responsible. The secret is professional, of caught a prisoner who, if not a revolutionist, If I know you, even by sight, I should was at all events an impostor, since he had not hesitate. As it is, I must ask your name.' a card printod with a false üame. San Giacinto did not hesitate long, as the surgeon was evidently master of the situation. He took a card from his case anıl silently handed it to the doctor. The latter took it CHAPTER VI and read the namo, “Don Giovanni Saracinesca, Marchese di San Giacinto." His face betrayed The incprovised banquet at the Palazzo Sarano emotion, but the belief flashed through his cinosca was not a merry one, but the probable mind that there was no such person in existence. dangers to tho city and the disappearana of He was one of the leading men in his profession, Faustina Montevarchi furnished matter for and knew Prince Saracinesca and Sant'Ilario, plenty of conversation. The majority inclined but he had never heard of this other Don to the belief that the girl had lost her head and Giovanni. He knew also that the city was in had run home, but as neither Sant'Ilario ricr preserved." course, 6 be seen. 16 VI SANT' ILARIO 37 his cousin returned, there was much specula Excellency, I know nothing, but I had to. tion. The prince said he believed that they do my duty.' had found Faustina at her father's houso and “And if you know nothing how the clevil do had stayed to dinner, whereupon somo mali. you expect to do your duty! I will have you cious person remarked that it needed a and the surgeon and the wholo of Santo Spirito revolution in Rome to produce hospitality in and all the patients, in the Carcori Nuovo, safo such a quarter. in prison before morning! My hat, Pasquale, Dinner was nearly ended when Pasquale, the I say !” butler, whisperod to the prince that a gendarmie Some confusion followerl, during which the wanted to speak with him on very important gendarme, who was anxious to escape all responbusiness. sibility in the matter of San Giacinto's contino- Bring him here," answered old Saracinosca, ment, left the room and descended the grand aloud. There is a gendarme outside," he staircase three steps at a time. Mounting his added, addressing his guests ; "he will tell us horse he galloped back through the now deserted all the news. Shall we have him hero ! " streets to the hospital. Everyono assented enthusiastically to the Within two minutes after his arrival San proposition, for most of those present were Giaciuto heard the bolt of the heavy lock run anxious about their houses, not knowing what back in the socket and the surgeon entered the had taken place during the last two hours. The mortuary chamber. San Giacinto haul nearly man was ushered in, and stood at a distance, finished his cigar and was growing impatient, holding his three-cornered hat in his hand, and but the doctor made many apologies for his long looking rather sheepish and uncomfortable absence. " Well?” asked the prince. " What is the "i An unexpected relapso in a dangerous case, matter? We all wish to hear the news. Signor Marchese," said he in explanation. Excellency," began the soldier, “I must " What would you have? We doctors aro at ask many pardons for appearing thus" the mercy of Naturo! Pray forgive my neglect, Indeed, his uniform was more or less disarranged but I could send no one, as you did not wish to and he looked pale and fatigued. I locked the door, so that nobody “Never mind your appearance. Speak up," night find you here. Pray come with me, anil answered old Saracinesca, in encouraging tones. you shall see the young lady at once. Excellency," said the man, “I must apolo • By all means," replier San Giacinto. “Dead gisc, but thero is a gentleman who calls himself men aro poor company, and I am in a hurry." Don Giovanni, of your revered name----- The surgeon led the way to the accident ward “I know there is. He is my son. What and introduced his companion to a small clean about him?" room in which a shaded lamp was burning. A “He is not the Signor Principe di Sant'Ilario, Sister of Mercy stood by the white bed, upon Excellency--he calls himself by another naine -- which lay a young girl, stretched out at her full Marchese di-di-hero is his card, Excelleucy. length. “My cousin, San Giacinto, then. What about "You are too late," said the nun very quietly. him, I “She is dead, poor child." Your Excellency has a cousin stam San Giacinto uttered a deep exclamation of mered the gendarme. horror and was at the bedside even before the “Well? Is it against the law to have cousins?” surgeon. He lifted the fair young creature in cried the prince. “What is the matter with his arms and stared at the colil face, holding it my cousin." to the light. Then with a loud cry of astonish- *** Dio mio!” exclained the soldior in great ment he laid down his burrlen. agitation. " What a combination ! Your It is not she, Signor Professore,” he said. Excellency's cousin is in the mortuary chamber “I must apologise for the trouble I have given at Santo Spirito ! yon. Bray accept my best thanks. There is “Is he dead ?" asked Saracinesca in a lower a resemblance, but it is not she." voice, but starting from his chair. The doctor was somewhat relieved to find No," cried the man, “questo è il male ! himself freed from the responsibility which, as That is the trouble ! He is alive and very San Giacinto had told him, involved the honour well !" of one of the greatest fainilies in Rome. Beforo “ Then what the devil is he doing in the speaking, he satisfied himself that the young mortuary chamber ?" roared the prince. woman was really dead. Excellency, I beseech your pardon, I had. “Death often makes faces look ali hich nothing to do with locking up the Signor havo no resemblance to each other in life," he Marchese. It was the surgeon, Excellency, remarked as he turned away. Then they both who took him for a Garibaldian. He 'shall be left the room, followed at a little distance by liberated at oncethe sister who was going to summon the bearors I should think so !" answered Saracinesca, to carry away her late charge. sayagely. " And what business have your asses As the two men descended the steps, the sound of surgeons with gentlemon ? My hat, Pasqualo. of loud voices in altercation reached their ears, And how on earth came my cousin to be in and as they energed into the vestibule, they Santo Spirito ? saw old Prince Saracinesca flourishing his stick say?" 46 66 38 > SANT' ILARIO CHE in danger.vus proximity to the head of the soldiers were lod back to do sentry duty in the porter. The latter had retreated until he stood neighbourhood of their quarters. The officer with his back against the wall. halter the little body in the broad space beyond. “I will have none of this lying," shouted the “ Monsieur Gouache,” said the lieutenant, irate nobleman. "The Marchese is here--the " you will take a corporal's guard and maintain gendarme told me he was in the mortuary order in the neighbourhood of the barrackschamber if he is not produced at once I will if there is anything left of them," he added, break your rascally neck The man was with a mournful laugh. protesting as fast and as loud as his assailant Gouache stepped forward and half a dozen threatened him. men formed themselves behind him. The officer "Eh! My good cousin!” cried San Giacinto, was a good friend of his? whose unmistakable voice at once made the "I suppose you havo not dined any moro, prince desist from his attack and turn round. than I, Monsieur Gouacho?". ** Do not kill the fellow! I am alive and well, “Not I, mon lieutenanu. It is no matter." as you seo. “Pick up sonething to eat if you can, at A short explanation ensued, during which such an hour. I will see that you are relieved the surgeon was obliged to admit that as San before morning. Shoulder arms! March!” Giacinto had no means of proving any identity So Anastase Gouache trudged away down the he, the doctor in charge. had thought it best to Borgo Nuovo with his men at his heels. Among send for the police, in view of the unquiot the number there was tho son of a French state of the city, duke, an English gentleman whose forefathurs “ But what brought you here ?" asked old had marched with the Conquero: as their Saracinesca, who was puzzled to account for his descendant now marched behind the Parisian cousin's presence iu tho hospital. artist, a young Swiss doctor of law, a couple San Giacinto had satisfied his curiosity and of recl-headed Irish peasants, and two or three did not care a pin for the annoyance to which others. When thoy reached the scene of the he had been subjected. He was anxious, too, late catastrophe the place was deserted. The to get away, and having half guessed the men who had been set to work at clearing surgeon's suspicions was not at all surprised by away the rubbish had soon found what a hopethe revelation concerning the gendarnie. less task they had undertaken ; and the news “ Allow me to thank you again," he said having soon spread that only the regimental politely, turning to the doctor. “I have no musicians were in the barracks at the time, and doubt you acted quite rightly. Let us go," he that these few had been in all probability in added, addressing the prince. the lower story of the building, where the band. The porter received a coin as consolation room was situated, all attempts at finding the money for the abuse he had sustained, and the bodies were abandoned until the nexi day. two cousins found themselves in the street. Gouache and many others had escaped death Saracinesca again asked for an explanation. almost niiraculously, for five minutes had not “Very simple," replied San Giacinto. "Donna elapsed after they had started at the double- Faustina was not at her father's house, so your quick for the Porta San Paolo, when the building son and I separated to continue our search. was blown up. The news had of course been Chancing to find myself here--for I do not brought to them whilo they were repulsing the know my way about the city-I learnt tho nows attack upon the gate, but it was not until many of the explosion, and was told that two Zouaves hours afterwards that a small detachment could had been found dead and bai been taken into safely be spared to return to their devastated the hospital. Fearing lest one of them might quarters. Gouache himself had boen just in have been Gouache, I succeeded in getting in, time to join his comrades, and with them had when I was locked up with the dead bodies, as seen most of the fighting. Ho now placed his you have heaid. Gouache, by the bye, was men at proper distances along the street, and not one of them. found leisure to reflect upon what had occurred. “ It is outrageous ” began Saracinesca, Jle was hungry and thirsty, and grimy with but his companion did not allow him to proceert. gunpowder, but there was evidently no prospect “It is no matter," he said, quickly. “The of getting any refreshment. The night, too, important thing is to find Donna Faustina. was gřowing cold, and he found it necessary to I suppose you have no news of her." walk briskly about to keep himself warm. At Nono. Giovanni had not come home when first he tramped backwards and forwards, some the gendarme appeared.” fifty paces each way, but growing weary of the Then we must continue the search as best monotonous exercise, he began to scramble about wa oán,” said San Giacinto. Thoroupon, they among the heaps of ruins. His quick imagination both got into the prince's cab and drove away, called up the scene as it must have looked at the it was nearly midnight when a small detach: moment of the explosion, and then reverted with ment of Zouaves crossed the bridge of Sant a sharp pang to the thought of his poor comrades. Angelo. There had been some sharp fighting at in-arms who lay crushed to death many feet. the Porta San Paolo, at the other extremity of below the stones on which he trod. Rome, and the men were weary. But rest was Suddenly, as ho leaned against a huge block, not to be expected that night, and the tired absorbed in his thoughts, the low wailing of VI moon. SANT' ILARIO 39 a woman's voice reached his ears. The sound eyes fixed on his, their lips met in a long, swesten proceeded apparently from no great distance, kiss--then her strength forsook her, and she but the tone was very soft and low. Gradually, swooned away in his armis. as he listoned, he thought he distinguished Gouache supportod eher tenderly until she sat words, but such words as he had not expected leaning against tho wall, and then knelt down to hear, though they expressed his own feeling by her side. He did not know what to do, and well enough. had he known it would have availed him little. Requiem eternam dona eis ! " His instinct told him that she would presently It was quite distinct, and the accents sounded l'ecover consciousness, and his emotions had so strangely familiar. He held his breath and wholly overcome him that he could only look at strainal every faculty to catch the sounds. lier lovely face as her head rested upon his arm. "Requiem sempiternam-sempiternum-em But while he waited a great fear began to piternam !" The despairing tones trembled at steal into his heart. He asked himself how the third repetition, and then the voice broke l'iristina had come to such a place, and how lur into passionate sobbing. coming was to bo accounted for. It was long Anastase did not wait for more. At first he past midnight now, and be guessed what troublo had half believed that what ho heard was due and anxiety there would be in her father's houso to his imagination, but the sudden wecping left until she was found. He represented to himself no doubt that it was real. Cautiously he made in quick succession the scenes which would his way amongst tho ruins, until he stopped follow his appearance at the Palazzo Monteshort in amazement not unmingled with horror. Varchi with the youngest daughter of the family In an angle where a part of the walls was still in his arms--or in a cab, and le confessed to standing, a woman was on her knees, her hands himself that never lover had been in such stretched wildly out before her, her darkly-clad straits. figure faintly revealed by the heams of the waning Faustine opened her eyes and sigled, nostleil Tho covering had fallen back from her her licad softly on his breast, sighing again, in head upon her shoulders, and tho struggling the happy consciousness that he was safe, and rays fell upon her beautiful features, marking thon at last she sat up and looked him in the their angelic outline with delicato light. Still face. Anastase reinained motionless, scarcely believing "I was so sure you were killed," said she, in his oyos, and yet knowing that lovely face too her soft voice. well not to believe. It was Donna Faustina “My darling!” he exclaimed, pressing her to Montevarchi who knolt there at midnight, alone, his side. repeating the solemn words from the mass for “Aro you not glad to be alive?" she asked. the dead; it was for him that she wept, and he “For my sake, at least ! You do not know knew it. what I have suffered." Standling there upon the common grave of his Again he held her close to him, in silence, comrades, a wild joy filled the young mau's heart, forgetting all the unheard-of difficulties of his a joy such as must bo felt to bo knowil, for it situation in the happiness of holding her in his passes the power of earthly words to tell it. In arms. His silence, indoed, was more eloquent that dim and ghastly place the sun scemed than any words could havo been. suddenly to shine as at noonday in a fair “My beloved !” he said at last, “how could country; the crumbling masonry and blocks of you run such risks for nie? Do you think I amı broken stone grew more lovely than the loveliose worthy of so much love? And yet, if loving flowers, and from the dark figuure of that lonely you can make me worthy of you, arn the inost heart-broken woman the man who loved her saw deserving man that ever lived.--and I live only a radiance proccediug which overflowed and for you. But for you I niight as well bo buried matle bright at once his eyes and his heart. In under our foot here with my poor comrades. the intensity of his emotion, the hand which lay But tull ne, Faustind, were you not afraid to upon the fallen stone contracted suddenly ani come? How long have you been hero? It is broke off a fragment of tho loosenci mortar. very late-it is alınost morning. At the slight noise, Faustina turned her head. "Is it? What does it mattor, since you are Her oyes were vide and wild, and as she started safo? You ask how I came? Did I not tell to her feet she uttered a short, sharp cry, and yon I would follow you? Why did you run on staggered backward against the wall. In a without me? I ran hore very quickly, and just moment Anastaso was at her sido, supporting its I saw the gates of the barrarks there was her and looking into her face. a terrible uoise and I was thrown down, I cannot Faustina ! tell how. Soon I got to iny feet and crept During a few seconds she gazed horrorstruck under a doorway. I suppose. I must have and silent upon him, stiffening herself a:al holl. fainteil, for I thought you were killed. I saw ing her faco away from his. It was as though a soldier before me just when it happened, and his ghost had risen out of the earth and ho must have been struck. I took him for you. embraced her. Then the wild look shivered When I came to myself there were so many like a mask and vanished, her foatures softened, people in the street that I could not move from and tho colour rose to her cheeks for an instant. where I was. Then thoy went away, and I came Very slowly she drew him towards her, her here while the workreu trial to move the I 40 SANT' ILARIO CH. ) stonos, and I watched them and begged thom to “How can you ask? I will always trust you." go on, but they would not, and I had nothing "Then I will toll you what we will do. You to givo them, so they went away too, and must go home with the Princess Sant'Ilario." I knew that I should have to wait until to “With Corona ? Butmorrow to find you---for I would have waited - “She knows that I love you, and she is the no one should have dragged me away--al! my only woman in Romo whom I would trust. Do darling--my beloved ! What does anything not be surprised. She asked me if it was true, mattor now that you are safu !" and I said it was. I am on duty here, and you For fully half an hour they sat talking in this must wait for mo while I make the rounds of wise, both knowing that the situation could not my sentries-it will not take five minutes. last, but oneither willing to speak the word Then I will take you to the Palazzo Saracinesca. which must und it. Giouache, indeed, was in I shall not be missed hero for an hour." a two-fold difficulty. Not only was lu wholly “I will do whatever you wish," said Haustina, at a loss for a means of introducing Faustina“ Perhaps that is best. But I am afraid overyinto her father's houso nuobserved at such an body will be asleep. Is it not very late ?" hour; he was in command of the men stationed “I will wake them up if thoy aro sleeping." in the neighbourhood, and to leave his post llo left her to make his round and soon under any circumstances whatever would be assured himseif that his men were not napping. a very grave breach of duty. Bo could neither Then before he returned he stopped at the allow Faustina to return alone, nor could he corner of a street, and by the feeble moonlight accompany her. He could not send one of his scratcher a few words on a leaf from his men for a friend to help him, since to take any- notebook. one into his confidence was to ruin the giri's “Madame," he wrote. “I havo found Donna reputation in the eyes of all Rome. To linc Faustina Montevarchi, who had lost her way. a cab at that time of night was almost out of it is absolutely necessary that you shoutil the question. The position seemed desperato. accompany her to her father's house. You are Faustina, too, was a mere child, and it was the only person whom I can trust. I an at impossible to explain to her the social con- your gate. Bring soniething in the way of scquences of her being discovered with him. it cloak to rlisguise her with." “I think, perhaps," said she after a happy le signed his initials and folded the paper, silence, and in rather a timid voice.-"I think, slipping it into his pocket where he could perhaps, you had better take me home now. readily find it. Then he went back to the place They will be anxious, you know,” she added, as where Faustina was waiting. He helped her though fearing that he should suspect hier of out of tho ruins, and passing through a sidlo wishing to leave him. street so as to avoid the sentinels, they madlo “Yes, I must take you home," answered their way rapiilly to the bridge. The sentry Gouache, somewhat absently. To hor his tone challenged Gouache wit gave the word at onco sounded cold. and was allowed to pass on with his charge. 'Are you angry because I want to go?" asked in less than a quarter of an hour they wero at the young girl, looking lovingly into his face. the Palazzo Saracinesca, Gonache macle Angry? No indeei, darling! I ought to Faustina stam in the shadow of a doorway have taken you home at once-- --but I was too on the opposite sicle of the street anıl advanced happy to think of it. Of course your preople to the great doors. A ray of light which passer must bo terribly anxious, and the question is through the crack of a shutter behind the heavy how to manage your entrance. Can you get iron grating on one side of the arch showed that into the house unseen. Is there any way? Any tho porter was up. Anataso drew his bayonet sniall door that is from his side and tapped with its point against "We can wako the porter," said Faustina, the high window. simply. “He will let us in." Who is there?" asked the porter, thrusting “It would not do. How can I go to your his head out. father and tell him that I found you here? “ Is the Principo di Sant'Ilario still awake?” Besides, the porter knows me, asked Gouache, "Well, if he does, what does it matter ?" He is not at home. Hoaven knows where "He would talk about it to other servants, he is.' What do you want? The princess is and all Rome would know it to-norrow. You sitting up to wait for the prince." must home with a woman, and to do that wo “That will do as well,” roplied Anastaso. must find someone you know. It would be “I am sent with this note from the Vatican. a terrible injury to you to have such a story It needs an immediato answer. Bo good enough repeated abroad." to say that I was ordored to wait.” Why?" The explanation satisfied the porter, to whom To this innocent question Gouache did not the sight of a zou've was just then more agreefind a ready answer. He smiled quietly and able than usual. Ho put his arm out through pressed her to his side mare closely. the grating and took the papor. “The world is a very bad placo, dearest. I am “It does not look as though it came from a man and know it. You must trust me to do the Vatican," he remarked doubtfully, as hö what is bestá Will you?” turned the scrap to the light of his lamp. open? go VI SANT' ILARIO, 41 66 “The cardinal is waiting-make haste!” said "It is a great deal to me that he should havo Gouache. It struck him that even if the man got you into this trouble.” could read a littlo, which was not in probable, “He did not. If it is trouble, I got myself the inftials A. G., being those of Cardinal into it. Do you love him yourself that you are Antonelli in reversed order, would be enough to so angry?" frighten the follow and make him move quickly. "I!" cried Corona, in amazenient at tho girl's This, indeed, was precisely what occurred. audacity. “Poor Gouache!” she added with a In five minutes the small door in the gato was half-scornful, half-pity' ng laugh. "Come, child ! opened, and Gouache saw Corona's tall figure Let us go in. We cannot stand here all night step out, into the street. She hesitated a talking. I will tell your mother that you lost moment when she saw, the Zouave alone, and your way in our house and were found asleep in then closed the door with a snap behind her. a distant room. Thu lock was jamviel, and you Gouache bowed quickly and gave her his arm. could not get out." “Let us be quick," he said, or the porter “I think I will simply tell the truth," will sce us. Donna Faustini is under that door- answered Faustina. way. You know how grateful I an-there is You will do nothing of the kind," said? no time to say it." Corona, sternly. “Do you know what woull Corona said nothing, but hastened to Faus- happen? You would be shut up in a convent by tina's side. The latter put her arms about her your father for several years, and the world friend's neck and kissed her. The princess would say that I had favoured your meetings threw a wille cloak over the young girl's with Monsieur Gouache. This is no trilling shoulders and drew the hood over her head. matter. You need say nothing. I will give the " Lot us be quick," said Corona, repeating wholo explanation myself, and take the respon. Gouache's words. They walked quickly away sibility of the falsehood upon my own shoulders.” in silence, and 110 one spoke until they reached "I promised him to do as he bid nie," replied tho Palazzo Montevarchi. Explanations were Faustina. “I suppose he would have me follow impossible, and everyone was too much absorbel your advice, and so I will. Are you still angry, by the danger of the situation to speak of aby- Corona ?” thing else. When they wero a few steps from "I will try not to be, if you wili bo sensiblo." the gate Corona stopped. They knocked at the gate and were soon You may leave us here," she said coldly, admitted. Tho whole household was on foot, adıressing Gouacho. though it was past one o'clock. It is unnecessary But, princess, I will see you homo," pro- to describe the emotions of Fanstina's relations, tested tho latter, somewhat surprised by her nor their gratitude to Corona, whose explanation tono. they ilccepted at once, with a delight which may “No--I will take a servant back with me. Will easily be imagineci. you be good enough to leave us?” she asked “But your porter said he had seen her leave almost haughtily, as Conache still lingered. your house," said the Princess Montevarchi, Ho had no choice but to obey her conimands, recollecting the detail and anxious to have it though for some time ho could not explain to explained. himself the cause of the princess's behaviour. "He was mistaken, in his fright,” returned “Cool-night, Marlane. Good-night, Made Corona, calmly. “It was only my maid, who moiselle,” he said, quietly. Then with a low ran out to see what was the matter and returned bow he turned away and disappeared in the soon afterwards.”. darkness. In five minutes he had reached the There was nothing more to be said. The old bridge, running at the top of his speed, and he prince and Ascanio Bellegra walked home with rogained his post without his absence having Corona, who refused to wait until a carriago been observed. could be got ready, on the ground that her When the two women were alone, Corona laid husband might havo returned from the search her hand upon Faustina's shoulder and looked and might be anxious at her absence. She left cluwn into the girl's laro. her escort at her door and nounted the steps Haustina, my child," she said, "low conll alone. As she was going up the porter came you be led into such a wild scrape?” running after her. “Why did you treat him so unkindly?" asked Excellency," he said, in low tones, the young girl with flashing eyes. " It was Signor Principe came back while you were gone, cruel and unkindand I told him that you had received a noto "Because he deserved it," answered Corona, from the Vatican, and had gono away with the with rising anger. “How could ho dare--from Zouave who brought it. I hope I did rightmy house-a mere child like you “Of course you did," replicd Corona. She “I do not know what you imagine," said was a calm woman, and not easily thrown off Frustina in a tone of decp resentment. * I fol. her guard ; but as she mado her answer, sho lowed him to the Serristori barracks, and I was conscious of an unpleasant sensation wholly fainted when they were blown up. He found new to her. She hai pover done anything con. me and brought mo to you, because he said I cerning which she had reason to ask herseli could not go back to my father's house with him. what Giovanni would think of it. For the first If I love him what is that to you?” time since her marriage with him she knew that 66 66 " tho 1 was SANT' ILARIO ČHS she had something to conceal How, indeed, lipe. She knew well enough what a strange vvas it possible to tell hin the story of Faustina's thing she had asked, and she was indeed gratewild doings ? Giovanni was a man who know ful to him. He stooped down and kissed hores the world, and had no great belief in its virtues. forehead. To tell him what had occurred would be to do "I will always trust you," !:e said, softly, . Faustina an irreparable injury in his eyes. He “Tell me, dear one, has this matter given you would believe his wife, no doubt, but he would pain? Is it a secret that will tronblo you? tell her that Faustina had deceived her. She "Not now," she answered, frankly. cared little what he might think of Gouache, Giovanni was in earnest when he promised to for she herself was incensed against him, trust his wife. He knew, better than any believing that he must certainly havo used sone living man, how well worthy she was of his Persuasion t. induce Faustinå to follow him, utmost confidenco, and he meant what lie said. mad as the idea seemed. It must be confessed that the situation was Corona had little time for reflection, however. a trying one to a man of his temper, and the She could not stand upon the stairs, and as soon depth of his love for Corona can be judged from as she entered the house she must meet her the readiness with which he consented to her husband. She made up her mind hurriedly to concealing anything from him. Every circumdo what in most cases is extremely dangerous. stance connected with what had happened that Giovanni was in her Loudoir, pale and anxious. evening was strange, and the conclusion, instead He had forgotten that he hari not dined that of elucidating the mystery, only mado it more evening, and was smoking a cigarette with niysterious still. His cousin's point - blank short, sharp pufts. declaration that Faustina and Gouache wore in " Thank God!” he cried, as his wife entered love was startling to all his ideas and prejudices. the room. "Where have you been, my darling?” He had seen Gouache kiss Corona's hand in “Giovanni," said Corona, gravely, laying her a corner of the drawing-room, a proceeding two hands on his shoulders, "you know you which he did unt wholly approve, though it can trust me do you not ?" common enough. Then Gouache and “As I trust heaven," he answered, tenderly. Faustina had disappeared. Then Faustina had "You must trust me now, then," said she. been found, and to facilitato the finding it had “I cannot tell you where I have been. I will heen necessary that Corona and Gouache should tell you some day, you have my solemn promise. leave the palace together at one o'clock in the Faustina Montevarchi is with her mother. I took morning. Finally, Corona had appealed to his her back, and told them sho had followed me confidence in her and had taken advantage of it from the rooin, had lost her way in the house, 'to refuse any present explanation whatever of and had accidentally fastened a door which she her proceedings. Corona was a very noble and could not open. You must support the story. true woman, and he had promised to trust her. You need only say that I told you so, because líow far he kept his word will appear hereafter. you were out at the time. I will not lie to you, 80 tell you that I invented the story." Sant Ilario was silent for a few minutes, during which he looked steadily into his wife's CHAPTER VIT eyes, which met his without flinching. " You shall do as you please, Corona," he said"Vrex San Giacinto heard Corona's explanation at last, returning the cigarette to his lips and of Faustina's disappearanco, he said nothing: still looking at her. “Will you answer me one ffe did not believe the story in the least, but if question? everyone was satisfied there was no reason why If I can without explaining: he should not be satisfied also. Though ho saw "That Zonave who bronght tho message front well enough that the tale was a pure invention, the Vatican---was he Gouache?” and that there was something behind it which Corona turned her eyes away, annoyell at the was not to bo known, tho result was, on the demand. To refuse to answer was tantamount whole, exactly what he desired. llo recoived to admitting tho truth, and she would not lie the. thanks of the Montevarchi household for to her husband. his fruitless exertions with a smile of gratifica- It was Gouache," she said, after a moment's tion, and congratulated the rrincess upon the hesitation. happy isano of tho adventure. He made no * “I thought so," answered Sant'Ilario in present attempt to ascertain the real truth by a low voice. He moved away, throwing his asking questions which would have beon hard. cigarette into the fireplace. * Very well,” he to answer, for ho was delighted that the incident continned, "I will remember to tell the story should be explained away and forgotten at once. As you told it to me, and I am sure you will tell Donna Faustina's disappearance was of course me the truth some day.' freely-discussed and variously commented, but "Of course," said Corona. "And I thank the general verdict of the world was contrary to you, Giovanni, with my whole heart! Thero is San Giacinto's private conclusions. People said no ono like you, dear. that the account given by the färgily must be She sat down in a chair beside him an ho true, since it was absurd to suppose that a child stond, and taking his hand she pressed it to her jnst out of the convent could be either so foolight: <3 VII SANT. ILARIO 43 novel that appears, or so- courageous as to go out alone at such Not long ago a French journalist said that # moment. No other hypothesis was in the many of the peculiarities of the English-speaking least tenable, and the demonstration offered peoples proceeded from the omnipresence of the must be'accepted as giving the only solution of young girl, who reads every the problem. San Giacinto told no one that he goes to every theatre, and regulates the tone of thought differently. conversation and literature by her never-absent It was before all things his intontion to estab- innocence. Cynics, if there are still reprelish himself firmly in Roman society, and his sentatives of a school which has grown ridiculous, natural tact told him that the best way to may believe this if they please ; the fact accomplish this was to offend no one, and to remains that it is precisely the most masculine endorso without question the opinion of the class of men who show the strongest predilection majority. Moreover, as a part of his plan for for the society of the most refined women, and assuring his position consisted in marrying who, on the whole, show the greatest respect Faustina's sister, his interest lay manifestly for all women in general. The masculine man in protecting the good name of her family by prefers the company of the other sox by natural every means in his power. He knew that old attraction, and would perhaps rather tight with Montevarchi passed for being one of the most other men, or at least strive to outdo them in rigid amongst the stiff company of tho strait- the struggle for notoriety, power, or fanc, than laced, and that the prince was as careful of the spend his time in friendly conversation with conduct of his children as his father had formerly them, no matter how interesting the topic been in regard to his own doings. Ascanio selected. This point of view may be regardel Bellegra was the result of this home education, as uncivilised, but it may be pointed out that and already bid fair to follow in his parent's it is only in the most civilised countries that the footsteps: Christian virtuos are certainly not society of women is accessible to all men of their incompatible with manliness, but the practice own social position. No one familiar with of them as maintained by Princo Montevarchi Eastern countries will pretend that Orientals had made his son Ascanio a colourless creature, shut up their wonen because they enjoy their rather non-bad than good, clothed-in a garment company so much as to be unwillir.g to share of rightoousness that fitted him only because the privilege with their friends. his harmless soul had no salient bosses of San Giacinto was pre-eminently a masculine goodness, any more than it was disfigured by man, as indeed were all the Saracinesca, in any reprehensible depressions capable of harbour a greater or less degree. He understood women instinctively, and, with a very limited There is a class of men in certain states of experience of the world, know well enough the society who are manly, but not masculine. strength of their influence. It was characteristic There is nothing paradoxical in the statemeut, of him that ho had determined to marry almost nor is it a 'mero play upon the meanings of as soon as ho had got a footing in Roman words. There aro men of all ages, young, society. He saw clearly that if he could unite middle-aged, and old, who po: nos many himself with a powerful family he could exercise estimablo virtues, who show physical courago a directing power over the wonicn which wherever it is nocessary, who are honourable, must ultimately give him all that he needed. strong, industrious, and tenacious of purpose, but Through his consius ho had very soon made who undeniably lack something which helongs to the acquaintance of the Montevarchi bousethe ideal man, and which, for want of a better hold, and scoing that thoro two 'word, we call the masculine element. When marriageable daughters, he profited by the we shall have microscopes so largo and power. introduction. He would have preferred Haustini, ful that a human being shall be as transparent porhaps, but he foresaw that he should find under the concentrated light of tho lenses as the fower difficulties in obtaining her sister for, tiniest insect when placed in one of our modern his wife. The old prince and princess were in Instruments, then, perhaps, the scientist of tho despair at secing her still unmarried, and it was .future may discover the causes of this differenco. clear that they were not likely to find a better I believe, however, that it does not depend match for her ihan the Marchose di San Giacinto. ypon the fact of one man having a few ounces He, on his part, knew that his past occupation more of blood in his veins than another. The was a disadvantage to himn in tho eyes of the fact lies deeper luidden than that, and muy world, although hu was the undoubted and puzzle the psychologist as well as the professor acknowledged cousin of the Saracinesca, and of anthropology: For us it exists and we the only man of the family besides old Leono fannot explain it, but nuust content ourselves and his son Sant'Ilario. His two boys, also, with comparing the phenomena which proceed were a drawback, since his second wife's children from those differences of organisation. "At the could not ivherit the whole of the property he present day the society of the English-speaking expected to leave. But his position was good, racosc-seems to favour the growth of the creature and Flavia was not generally considered to be who is only manly but not masculine, whereas likely to marry, so that he had good hopes of outside the pale of that strange little family winning her. which calls itself "society" tho masculinity of It was clear to him from the first that there inna is more striking than among other races. must be some reason why, she had not married, ing evil. Wor'O 44 SANT' ILARIO CH. وز and the somewhat disparaying remarks con- sake of getting rid of her, and perhaps his cerning her which ho heard from time to time cousin thought as much. The prince checked excited his curiosity. As he had always intonded himself, however, and ended his sentence rather to consult the head of his family upon the matter awkwarlly. he now determined to do so at once. He was “For the sako of getting such a fino fellow not willing, indeed, to let matters go any for a husband," he said. further until he had ascertained the truth con "Why is she not already married ?" inquired cerning her, and he was sure that Princo Sara San Giacinto, with a very slight inclination of cinesca would tell him everything at the first his head, as an acknowledgment of the flattering mention of a proposal to marry her. The oll' specch whereby the prince had helped himsolf gentleman had too much pridle to allow his out of his difficulty. cousiu to make an unfitting match. Accordingly, Who knows !” cjaculated the latter, on the day following the events last narrated enigmatically. San Giacinto called after breakfast anul found "ly there any story about her? Was she over the prince, as usual, alone in his study. He was engaged to be marrial : It is rather strange not dozing, however, for the accounts of the when one thinks of it, for sho is a handsonie last night's doings in the Osservatore Romano virl. Tray be quite frank-I have taken no were very interesting. steps in the matter." "I suppose you have heard all about Monte "The fact is that I do not know. She is not varchi's daughter?" asked Saracinesca, laying like other girls, and as she gives her father and his paper aside and giving his hand to Sar mother some trouble in society, I suppose that Giacinto. young men's fathers have been afraid to ask for “Yes, and I am delighted at the conclusion her. No. I can assure you that there is no story of the adventure, especially as I have something connected with her. She has a way of stating to ask you about another member of the family. (lisagreeablo truths that terrifics Montevarchi. "I Hope Flavia has not disappeared now,' She was delicate as a child and was brought rcmarked the priuce. up at home, so of course she has no manners. 'I trust not," answered San Gięcinto with “I should have thought she should have better a laugh. “ I was going to ask you whether manners for that,' remarked San Giacinto. The I should have your approval if I proposed to princ:o starred at him in surprise. marry her." • We do not think so here," he answered after “This is a very sudden announcement," said a moment's pause. "On the whole, I should say Saracinesca with some surprise. “I must think that for a huwreel anci twenty thousand yon abont it. I appreciate your friendly disposition might marry her, if you are so inclined--anit if vastly, my dear cousin, in asking my opinion, you can manage her. But that is a matter for and I will give the matter my best consideration. you to judge. "I shall be very grateful," replied the younger «s Tho Montevarchi are, I believe, what you man gravely. In my position I feel bound to call a great family? consult you. I should do so in any case for the They are not the Savelli, nor the Frangipani mcre benefit of your advice, which 19 very ---- nor the Saracinescil either. But they aro ncedful to one who, like myself, is but a novico i good family--good blood, good fortuno, and in the ways of Rome. what Montevarchi calls gooul principles.' Sıracinesca Irked krcnly at his cousin, as " You think I could not slo better than marry though expecting to disever one touch of Donna Flaviit, then? irouy in his tone or expression. He remembered · It would be a good marriage, decidedly. the fierce altercations he had engaged in with You ought to have married Tullia Mayer. If Giovanni when he had wished the latter to she had not maslo ir foul of herself and an enemy marry 'Tullia Mayer, and was astonished to final foi ine, and if you hmel turned up two years ago..- San Giacinto, over whom he had no real well, there were it good many objections to her, authority at all, so dorilo and anxious for his and stories about her, too. But she was rich counsel. ch! that was a fortune to be snappool up by that " I suppose you woull like to know something scoundrel Del Torico !” alsout her fortune,” lies saill at last. Wonte Del Ferice!" repeated San Giacinto. "The varchi is rich, but miserly. He could give her sange wiro tried to prove that your son was anything he liked.” married by copying my marriage register?' "Of course it is important to know what he: The same. I will toll you the rest of tho would like to give," replied San Giacinto with story some day. Then at that timo there was a smile. Bianca Valdarno-but she warricd a Neapolitan Of course. Very well. There are two last year; and the Rocca girl, but Onorato daughters already married. They each had a Cantalupo got her and her dowry-Moutohundred thousand sendi. It is not so bail, varoli's second son--and--well, I seo nobody after all, when you think what a large family, now, except Flavia's sister Faustina. Why not he has--but he could have given moro. As for marry her? It is true that lier father moans to Flavia, he might do sofáothing generous for the catch young Frangipani, but he will have no such sake of luck, I can tell him, unless lie will part with half The olil gentleman was going to say, for the la million." 66 66 VII SANT' ILARIO 45 . 66 “I was, “ With me, 3) " Donna Faustina is too young," said San San Gincinto, however. His perceptions were Giacinto, calmly. Besides, as they are sisters naturally quick, and were sharpened by tho and there is so little choice, I may say that peculiarities of his present position, so that ho prefol Donna Flavia, she is more gay, more understood Saracinesca's unwillingvess to have lively. a hand in the matter almost better than the Vastly more, I have no doubt, and you will princo understood it himself. have to look after her, unloss you can make her “I trust that I shall not be obliged to ask fall in love with you.' Saracinesca laughed at your holp,” remarked San Giacinto. the idea. indeed, noro anxious for your goodwill than for “ With me!” exclaimed San Giacinto, join- any moro material aid.” ing in his cousin's marriment. 7. You have it, with all my heart," said indeed!“ A sober widower, between thirty and Saracinesca warmly, for he was a little ashamed forty! A likely thing! Fortunately there is of his collness. 110 question of love in this matter. I think I can San Giacinto took his leave, and went away answer for her conduct, however." well satisfied with what ho had accomplished, as “I would not be tho man to raise your indeed he had good cause to be. Montevarchi's jealousy!” remarkeol Saracinesca, laughing again consent to tho marriage was not doubtful now as he looked admiringly at his consin's gigantic that San Giacinto was assured that he was able figuro and lean stern face. " You are certainly to fulfil the conditions which would be askell, ablo to take care of your wife. Besides, I have and the knowley, that he was able to do even no doubt that Flavia will change when she is more than was likely to be required of him gave married. She is not a bal girl--only a little liim ad litional contidone in the result. To tell too fond of making fun of her father and mother, the truth, he was strongly attracted by Flavia ; and after all, as far as the old man is concerned, and thongh he would assuredly have fought I do not wonder. There is one point upon which with leis inclination had it appeared to be you must satisfy him, though. im not curious, misplaced, ho was pleased with the prospect and do not ask you questions, but I warn you of marrying a woman who would not only that glad as he will bo to marry his daughter, strengthen his position in society, but for whom he will want to drive a bargain with you and he knew that he was capable of a sincere attachwill inquire about your fortune. ment. Marriago, according to his light, was San Giacinto was silent for a fow moments beforo all things a contract entered into for and seemed to be making a calculation in his mutnal advantage; but he saw no reason why hie:1. | the fulfilment of such a contract should not bo “Would a fortune equal to what he gives hernacle as agreeable as possible. be sufficient ?” he askeil at length. The principal point was yet to be gained, “Yes, I fancy Bo," replied the prince looking however, and as San (iiacinto mounted the rather curiously at his cousin. "You see," he steps of the Palazzo Montevarchi ho stopped continuedl, have children by your first more than once, considering for the last timo marriago, Montevarchi would wish to see Flavia's whether he were doing wisely or not. On the son provided for, if she has one. That is your wholu ivo determiner to proceerd, iind mado up atlair. I do not want to make suggestions. his mind that he woukl go straight to the point. “I think,” said San Giacinto afier another Flavia's father was sitting in his study when short interval of silence, “that I could agree Sin Giacinto arrived, and the latter was struck to settle something upon any chillren which by the contrast between the personalities and may be born. Do you think somo such arrange the moules of life of his courin whom ho haul ment would satisfy Prince Vlontevarchi? just kit and of the man to wbuin he was abont *Ceriainly, if you can agree abont the terms. t. propose himself à son-in law. Tho Such things are often done in these caso.. Saracinesca were by no means very luxurious “I am very grateful for your ailvicc. May men, but they merstood the comforts of I count upon your gooi word with the prince if existence better than most Rumans of that day. he asks your opinion?" If there was massive old-fashioued furniture Of course," answered Saraciursca, readily, if 1:gainst the walls and in the corners of the hugo not very cordially. rooms, thero were on tho other hand soft carpets He had not # first like his cousing, and for the feet and cushioned easy-chairs to sit in. although he had overcomchisinstinctive aversion There were fires on the hearths when the to the man, the feeling was momentarily revive weather was coll, and modern lamps for the with more than its former force by the prospect long winter evenings. There were new books of being perhaps called upon to guarantee, in, on the tables, engravings, photographs, a few # measuro, San Giacinto's character as a suitable objects of value and beauty not jealously locked husband for Flavia. Ilo had gone too far up in closets, but looking as thouglı they were already, however, for since he hart given his used, if useful, or at least as if surcone derived approval to the scheme it would not becoine him pleasure from looking at them. The palace to withhold his co-operation, should his assist-itself was a stern old fortress in the miilst of anco be in any way necessary in order to bring the older part of the city, but within there was about the marriage, The slight change of tone genial atmosphere of generous living, and, De he uttered the last words had not escaped since Sant'Ilario's marriage with Corona, an air as you as 46 SANT' ILARIO CH. of refinement and good taste such as only his coat when his visitor :was announced. It & woman can impart to the house in which she was a fixed principle of his life to dress as well dwolls. as his neighbours when they could see him, but The residence of the Montevarchi was very to wear threadbare garments whenever he could difforent. Narrow strips of carpet were do so unobserved. He greeted San Giacinto stretched in straight lines across cold marble with a grave dignity which contrasted strangely floors, from one door to another. Instead of with the weakness and excitement he had shown open fires in the huge chimney.places, pans on the previous night. of fighted charcoal were set in the dim, “I wish to speak to you upon a delicato empty rooms. Half-a-dozen halls were furnished subject," began the younger man, after seating alike. Esch had three niarble tables and twelve himself upon one of the high-backed chairs straight-backed chairs ranged against the walls, which cracked ominously under his weight. the only variety being that sono were covered "I am at your service," replied the old with red damask and song with green. Vast gentleman, inclining his head politely. old-fashioned mirrors, set in magnificent frames “I feel,” continued San Giacinto, that built into the wall, reflected vistas of emptinoss although my personal acquaintance with you and acres of cold solitude. Nor were the rooms has unfortunately been of short duration, the where the family met much better. There were familiarity, which exists between your family more tables and more straight-backed chairs and mino will entitle what I have to say to there than in the onter halls, but that was all. a share of your consideration. The proposal The drawing-room had a carpet, which for many which I have to make las perlaps been made years had been an object of the greatest concern by others beforo me and has been rejected. to the princo, who never left Rome for the I have the honour to ask of you the hand of months of August and September until he had your daughter." assured himself that this valuablo object had “Faustina, I suppose ?" asked the old prince : been beaten, dusted, peppered, and sewn up in in an indifferent tone, but looking sharply at his - linen case as old as itself, that is to say, companion out of his small keen eyes. dating from a quarter of a century back. That “Pardon me, I refer to Donna Flavia carpet was an extravagance to which his father Montevarchi.” had been driven by his English daughter-in-law; “Flavia ?" repcated the prince, in a tono of it was the only one of which he had over been unmistakable surprise, which, however, was guilty, and the present head of the family meant instantly noderated to the indifforent key that it should last his lifetime, and longer, too, again as he proceedel. “You see, we have if care could preserve it. The princess herself been thinking, so much about my daughter had been made to remember for five-and-twenty Faustina since last night that her naine cane to years that since she had obtained a carpet she my lips quite naturally." mast expect nothing else in the way of modern Jost natural, I am sure," answered San improveinents. It was the monument of a Giacinto; who, however, hal understood at stupendous energy which she had expended once that his suit was to have a hearing. He entirely in that ono struggle, and the sight of it then renained silent. reminded her of her youth. Long ago she had * You wish to marry Flavia, I understand," submitted once and for ever to the old Roman remarked the prince after a pause. “I believe ways, and though she knew that a very little you are a widlower, Marchese. I have heard saved from the expense of maintaining a score that you have children.” of uscless servants and a mangiſicent show "'Two loys." equipage would sutlice to make at least one “ 'Two boys, ch? I congratulate you. Boys, room in the house comfortable for her use, she if brought up in Christian principles, are much no longer sighed at the reflection, but consoled less troublesomo than girls. But, my dear herself with making her children put up with Marcheso, these same boys are an obstacle the inconveniences she herself had borne so long a very serious obstacle." and so patiently. “Less serious than you may imagine, porhaps. Trinco Montevarchi's privalo room was as, Vy fortune does not come under tho law of comfortless as the rest of the house. Narrow, primogeniture. There is no fidei commissum. high, din, carpetless, insufficiently warmed in' I car dispose of it as I please!" winter by a brazier of coais, anrl at present not E!, eh! But there must be a provision," warmed at all, though the weather was chilly; snid Montevarchi, growing interested in the furnished shabbily with dusty shelves, a writing, subject. table, and a few chairs with leather stats, musty "That shall be mutual," replied San Giacinto, with an ancient mustiness which seemed to bio gravely. emitted by the rows of old books and the moth "I suppose you mean to refer to my daughter's eaten baize cover of the table--the whole place portion," returned the other with more indif. looked more like the office of a decayed notary ference. “It is not much, you know-scarcely than the study of a wealthy nobleman of ancient worth ņientioning. I am bound to tell you that, li noage. The old gentleman himself entered in honour." tho room a few seconds after San Giacinto hari “We must certainly discuss the matter, it been ushered in, having slipped out to change you are inclined to consider my proposal." . (6 >> use. << VII SANT' ILARIO 47 "Well , you know what young women's was an agreement between two brothers of the dowries are, in those days, my dear Marchese. family, hy which the elder resigned the prino. We are none of us very rich." geniture in favour of the younger, who was then "I will make a proposal," said San Giacinto. married. T'ho elder, wlio took the San Giacinto " You shall give your daughter & portion. title, married late in life, and I am his great- Whatever be the amount, up to a reasonable grandson. If he had not acted so foolishly I limit, which you choose to give, I will settle a should be in my cousin's shoes. You see it like sum in such a manner that at my death it would be natural for him to let mo have somo shall revert to her, and to her children by me, disused titlo for one of my children in consideraif she have any. tion of this fact. He has about a hundred, I " That amounts merely to settling upon believe. You could ask him, if you please." herself the dowry I give her,” replied Monte San Giacinto's grave manner assured Montevarchi, sharply: "I give you a scudo for your varchi of the truth of the story. He hesitated You setilo my scudo upon your wife, that a moment longer, and then made up his mind. is all." I agree to your proposal, my dear Marcheso," “Not at all,” returned San Giacinto. “I do he said, with unusual blandness of manner. not wish to have control of her dowry- “I will settle one hundred and fifty thousand “The dovil! Oh-I see how stupid of mo scudi in the way I stated,” said San Giacinto, -I am indeed so old that I cannot count any simply. The prince started from his chair. more! How could I nake such a mistake? Of "One-hundred--and---fifty-thousand !” he course, it would be exactly as you say, Of repeated slowly. Why, it is a fortuno in course it would.” itself! Dear me! I had no idca you would “It would not be so as a general rule,” said name anything so large--- San Giacinto, calmly, “because most men would “ Seven thousand five hundred scudi a year, not consent to such an arrangement. That, at five per cent.,” remarked the younger man however, is my proposal." in a businesslike tono. “ You give the same. Oh! For tho sake of Flavia a man would That will insuro our children an income of do much, I am sure," answered the prince, why fifteen thousand scudi, it is not colossal, hnt it began to think that his visitor was in love with shoulıl suſfico. Besides, I have not said that the girl, incredible as such a thing appeared to I would not leave them more, if I chanced to liim. The younger man made no answer to this have more to leave." romark, however, and waited for Montevarchi The prince hall smuk back into his chair, and to state his terms. sat drumming on the table with his long thin “How much shall we say?" asked the latter fingers. His face wore an air of mingled surpriso at length. and bowilderment. To tell the truth, ho hail “ That shall be for you to decide. Whatever expected that San Giacinto wouli namo about you give I will give, if I am able.” tifty thousand as the sum requisito. Ho did not “Ah, yes! But how am I to know what you know whether to be clelighted at the prospect are able to give, dear Marcheso ?” The prince of marrying his daughter o well or angry at suspected that San Giacinto's offer, if ho could the idea of having committed himself to part be induced to make one, woull not be very with so much money. large. “That is much more than I gave my other "Am I to understand," inquired San Giacinto, daughters," he said at last, in & tone of “that, if I name the amount to be settled so hesitation. that at my death it goos to my wifo and her “Dil you give the money lo them or to their children by me for ever, you will agree to husbands?” inquired San Giacinto. settlo a liko sum upon Donna Flavia in her “To their husbands, of course. own right? If so, I will propose what I think “ Then allow me to point out that you will fair." now be merely settling money in your own Montevarchi looked keenly at his visitor for litmily, and that the case is very different. Not, somo moments, then looked away and hesitated, only that, but I am settling the same sum upon He was very anxious to marry Havia at once, your family, instead of taking your money for mand he has many reasons for supposing that San my own use. You are manifestly tho gainer by Giacinto was not very rich. the transaction." How about the title?” he asked suddenly. “It would be the same, then, if I left Flavia My title, of course, goes to my oldest son the money at my death, since it remains in the by my first marriage. But if you are anxious family, suggested tho prince, who sought an son that score I think my cousin would willingly oscape from his bargain. confor one of his upon the oldest son of your "Not exactly," argued San Giacinto. "First daughter. It would coat him nothing, and would there is the yearly interest until your death, be a sort of compensation to me for my grent- which I trust is yet very distant. And then grandfather's folly. there is the uncertainty of human affairs. It “How ?" asker Montevarchi. "I do not will be necessary that you invest the money in understand.” trust, as I shall do, at the time of signing the "I supposed you know the story. I am the contract. Otherwise there would be no fairness direct descendant of the elder branch. There in the arrangement.'

48 SANT ILARIO CH. . 66 > "So you say that you are descended from the opportunity to pay my respects to Donna elder branch of the Saracinesca. How strange Flavia." are the ways of Providence, my dear Marchese ?" "Tho wodding might take placo on tho 30th “It was a piece of great folly on the part of of November, my dear Marchese. Thü Ist of my great-grandfather," replied the other, December is Advent Sunday, and no marriages shirugging his shoulders. "You should never are permitted during Advent without a special say that a man will not marry until he is dead." licence." Ah no! The ways of leaven are inscrutable! "An exponsive affair, doubtless," remarked It is not for 118 poor mortals to attempt to change San Giacinto, gravely, in spite of his desire to theni. I supposo that agreenient of which you laugh. speak ws made in proper form and quite "Yes. Five scudi at least," answered Monterugular. varchi, impressively. I presune so, since no effort was ever marle “Let is by all means be economical." to change ihe dispositions established by it." “ The Holy Church is very strict about these I suppose so--I suppose so, dear Marchese. matters, and you may as well keep the money." It would be very interesting to see those “I will," replied San Giaciuto, rising to go. papers." "Do not let mo detain you any longer. Pray My cousin has them," said San Giacinto. accept my warmest thanks, and allow me to say “I daresay he will not olject. But, parcion me that I shall consider it a very great honour to if I return to a subject which is very near my become your son-in-law." lieart. Do I understanl that you consent to Al, indeed, you are very good, my dcar the proposal I have made? If so, we might Marchese. As for me I need consulation. Conmako arrangements for a meeting to take place sider a father's feelings, when he consigns his between our notarius beloved daughter-Flavia is an angel upon eartli, * One hundred and fifty thousand," sairl my friend -wlien, I say, a father gives liis dear Montevarchi, slowly rubbing his pointe:l chin chill, whom he loves as tho applo of his eye, to with his bony fingers. “Five per cent. --- seven bo curriel oil by a mana man even of your thousand five hundreri ---- il mint of money, worth! When your children aro grown up, you Signor díarchese, a mint of money! And these i will understand what I suffer." are hard times. What a rich mın you must be', "I quite understand," said San Giacinto, in to talk so lightly about stich immense sins! serious tones. “It shall be the ondeavour of Well, well-: you are very eloquent, I must con my life to make you forget your loss. May sent, and hy strict economy. I may perhaps I have the honour of calling to-morrow at this succeed in recovering the loss." time?" “ You must be aware that it is not really Yes, my dear Marchese, yes, my dear son a loss," argued San Giacinto, since it is to --forgive a father's tenderness. To-morrow at remain with your daughter and her children, this time, and---" he hesitated. “And then and consequently with your family." ----some time before the ceremony, perhaps-you “Yes, I know. But money is money, my will give us the pleasure of your company at friend,” exclaimed the prince', Taying his right breakfast, I am sure, will you not? hand on the old green tablecover and slowly very simple people, but we are hospitable in our drawing his crookesi nails over the cloth, as quict way. Hospitality is a virtue,” he sighed though he wonld like to squeeze goll out of the a little. "A necessary virtue," he added, with dusty wool. There was something almost fierce sorte emphasis upon the adjective. in his tone, loo, as he uttered the words, and " It will give me great pleasure," replied San his small eyes glitteru unpleasantly. He knew Giacinto. well enough that he was making it good bargain, Therewith ho left the room, and a fow and that San Giacinto was a better match than moments later was walking slowly homewards, he hard evi'r hoped to get for I'lavia, So revolving in his mind the probable results of his anxious was he, indeed, to secure the prize, that union with the Montevarchi family. he entirely abstained from ashing any questions Whou Montevarchi was alone, ho smiled concerning San Giacinto's past life, whereby pleasantly to himself, and took out of a secret some obstacle might havo been raised to the drawer a large book of accounts, in the study of intenderl marriage. He promised himself that which he spent nearly half an hour, with the wedding should take place at once. cvidont satisfaction. Thaving carefully locked “It is understood,"he continued, after a panse, up the volume, and returned the sliding panel “that we or our notaries shall appear with the tits placa, lo sent for his wife, who presently money in cash, and that it shall bo immediately appeared. invested as we shall jointly deciile, the settle Sit clown, Guendalina,” he said, "I will inerits being made at the same time and on the change my coat, and then I have something spot." important to say to you." Precisely so," replied San Giacinto. "No Ife had quite forgotten tio inevitable change money, no contract. in his satisfaction over the interview with San "In that case I will inform my danghter Giacinto, but the sight of the princess rocalled of my decision." the necessity for economy. It had been a part I shall be glad to avail myself of an early of the business of his life to set her a good Wo aro VII SANT' ILARIO 49 . 66 66 your husband example in this respect. When he came back The princess was silent for a moment, and ho seated himself boforo her. then began to make a series of inquiries con- My dear, I have got a husband for I'lavia," cerning tho proposed bridegroom, which it is were his first words. unnecessary to recount. "At last!"excluined the princess. "I hope ho " And now we will send for Flavia," said is presentablo," she added. She know that she Montevarchi, at last. could trust her husband in the inatter of fortune. "Would it not be best that I should tell her?" " The now Saracinesca--the Marchese di San askerl his wife. Giacinto." • My dear," he replied sternly, “when Princess Montevarchi's ruddy face expressed matters of gravc importance have been decided tho greatest astonishment, and her jaw dropped it is the cluty of the head of the house to comas she stared at the old gentleman. municate the decision to the persons concerned." A panper!” she exclaimed when she had So llavia was sent for, and appeared shortly, l'ecovered herself enough to speak. her pretty face and wicked black eyes expressing " Porlaps, Gundalina mia--but he settles both surprise and anticipation. She was almost a lwdrecl and fifty thousand scudi on Flavia as dark as San Giacinto himself, though of it ind her heirs for ever, the money to be paill on very different type. Her small noso bad in the signing of the contmot. That does not upward turn which disturbed her mother's look like panpierism. Of course, under the reas of the fitness of things, and her thick circumstances, I agreed to do the It is black hair wave naturally over her forehear', settled on l'lavia, lo yon understand? He doesllor ligure was graceful and her movement not want it penny of it, noi it premy! Trust'quick and spontaneous. The realness of her lijis serious niin of bi showed a strong vitality, which was further Guendalina. confirmed by the singular brightness of her eyes. Have you spoken to l'lavin? It certainly she was no beaunty, especially in a land where looks like a good matei, There is no doubt the clark complexion predominates, but she was about his boing of the Saracinesca, of course. , very pretty and possessed something of that llow could there be ? They have taken him to mysterious quality which charms without extheir hearis. But bow wilj Faviir behave?" citing clirect admiration. “ What a foolish question, my dear," ex Flavia," said her father, addressing her in claimed Montevarchi. "Ilow etzily one sees solemn tones, " you are to bo married, my dear that you are English! She will be delighted, chill. I have sent for you at ouce, because I presume. And if not, what differenco sloos thero Wits :10 timo to be lost, seeing that the it mako?" swirling !ust take place before the beginning 'I would not have married you against my vi liluri. The news will probably give you will, Lotario," observed the priucess. pleasure, but I trust you will reflect upon " For my part, I lind no choice. My clear the solemnity of such engagements and lay father sairl simply, My son, you will pay your side------ respects to that young lady, who is to be your " Would you mind telling me the namo of wife. If you wish to marry anyone else, I will my luusland ?" inquired Flavia, interrupting lock you up. And so I diil. Have I not been the maternal lecture. a faithful husband to you, Guidalina, through "The man I have selected for my son-in-law more than thirty year's? is one whom all women would justly envy you, Tho argument was unanswriable, and Monte- were it not that envy is an atrocious sin, varchi hail employed it cxeh time one of his and one which I trust you will henceforth children was married. In respect of faith-! endenvourfulness, at least, he had seen a moclel lusband. "To drown, crush ont, and stamp upon in “It is sufficient,” he added, willing to make the pursuit of true Christian principles,” sail a concession to his wife's foreign notions; "thal Lavia with a laugh. "I know all about envy. there should be love on the one side, and It is one of the seven deadlies. I can tell you Christian principles on the other. I cais assure them all, if you like." you that San Giacinto is full of love, and is Flavia, I am amazeri !" cricil the princess, for Havia, my dear, has she not been educated severely. Moy youis "I had not expected this conduct of my "As for V'lavia's Christian principles, my daughter," said Montevarchi. "And though • clear Lotario, I only liopo they inay suffice for I am at present obliged to overlook it, I can her married life. She is a terrible chill to have certainly not consider it pardonable. You will But San Giacinto Jooks like : de listen with becoming modesty and l'espect to terinired man. I shall never forget his kindness what I have to say. in searching for Faustina litst night. ife “ I am all molesty, respect, and attentiondevotion itself, and I should not have dicen but I would like to know his nanie, papa - surprised had ho wished to marry her instewwl.” please consider that pardonable !" "'That exquisito creature is reserved for a "I do not know why I slould not tell you young friend of murs, Guendaliniv. Do me the that, in I shall certitinly give you all such favour nerer to speak of hor marrying anyone information concerning him as it is proper that else.' you should receive. The fact that he is " 66 at home.

50 SANT' ILARIO CH. a widower need not surprise you, for in tho snapping her, small fingers liko a pair of oästa: inscrutablo ways of Providence somo meu are nots. « Evviva! Married at last! Hurrah!” deprived of their wives sooner than others. And with this parting salute she disappeared. Nor should his age appear to you in the When she was gone, her father and mother light of an obstacle -- indeed, there are 110 looked at each other, as they had looked many obstacles_ times before in the course of Flavia's life. They "A widower--oll-probably ball I can had found little difficulty in bringing up their see him already. Is he fat, pipa" other children, but Flavia was a mystery tą “He approaches the gigantic ; but, as I have them both. The princess would have under often told you, Ilavia, the qualities a wise stood well enough a thorough English girl, full father should seek in choosing a husband for of life and animal spirits, tbongh shy and tinid his child are not dependent upon outward in the world, as the elderly lady haä herself “For heaven's sake, mamma," cried Flavia, been in her youth. But Flavia's character was "tell ine the creature's pano !" incomprehensible to her northern soul, Monto- “ The Marchese di San Giacinto---let your parchi understood the girl better, but loved her father speak, and do not interrupt him." even less. What seonied odd in her to his wife, “While you both insist on interrupting me,” to him seemed vulgar and ill-bred, for he wouli said Montevarchi, “it is impossible for me to have had her liko the rest, silent and respectful express mysell." in his presence, and in awe of liin as the bead "I wish it were !' observed I'lavia, under of the house, if not in fact, at least in manner. her breath. "You are apicaking of the Sara. But Flavin's behaviour was in the eyes of Roinans cinesca consin, San Giacinto? Not so biurl it very serious objection to her as a wife for any aiter all." of their sons, for in their view moral worth was " It is very unbecoming in a young girl to necessarily accompanied by outward gravity and speak of men by their last names clocorum, anıl a light manner could only be tho “Giovanni, then. Shall I call himCiovanni" visible siyn of a yiddy heart. " Flavia !" exclaimed the princess. “How! "If only he does not tind out what sho is can you be so unilutiful! You should speak like !” exclaimed the princess at last. of him as the Mierchese di San Giacinto." "I devoutly trust that Heaven in its mercy “Silence !" cried the prince. “I will not be may avert such a catastropho from our house," interrupted! The Marchese di San Giacinto replied Montevarchi, who, however, seemed to will call to-morrow, after breakfast, and will be occupied in adding together certain sums pay his respects to you. You will receive him upon his fingers. in a proper spirit." San Giacinto understood Flavia better than "Yes, papa," replied Flavia, suddenly growing either of her parents; and although his marriage meek, and folding her hands submissively. with her was before all things a part of his plan “He has behaved with unexampled liberality,", for furthering his worklly interests, it must be continued Montevarchi, "and I need hardly confessed that he had a stronger liking for the say that, as the honour of our house wils con- girl than her father would have considered incerned, I have not allowed myself to be ouulone. dispensable in such affairs. The matter was Since you refuse to listen to tho words of decided at once, and in a few days the profatherly instruction which it is natural I should'liminaries were settled between tho lawyers, speak on this occasion, you will at least while Flavia exerted the utmost pressure remeinber that your future husband is entirely possible upon the parental purse in the question such a man as I would havo chosen, that he of the trousseail. is a Saracinesca, as well as it rich inal, and that It may seem strange that at the time when all He has been accustomed in the women of his Rome was convulsed by an internal revolution, family to a greater refinement of manner than and when the temporal power appeared to be in you generally think fit to exhibit in the presence very great langer, Montevarchi and San Giacinto of your father." should have been able to discuss so coolly the • Yes, papa. May I go now?" conditions of tho marriage, and even to fix SIF your conscience will permit yon to retire the wedding day. The only possible explanation without a word of gratitude to your parents, of this face is that neither of them believod ir who, in spite of the extreme singularities of the revolution at all. It is a noticeable your behaviour, have at last provided you with characteristic of people who are fond of monoy à suitable husbanu' if, I say, you aro capable that they do not readily beliove in any great of such ingratitul then, Flavia, you may changes. They are indeed the most conservative certainly yo.” of inen, and will count their profits at moment. "I was going to say, papa, that I thank you of peril with a coolness which would do honour very much for my husband, and mamma, too.” to veteran sokliers. Those who possess moncy Thereupon sho kissed her father's and her put their faith in nioncy, and givo no credunco mother's hands with great roverence and turned to rumours of revolution which are not becked to leave the room. Her gravity forsook her, by cash. Once or twice in history they have however, l.efore she reached the door. been wrong, but it must be confessed that they Evviva! Hurrah !" she cried, suddenly have very generally beon right. akipping across the intervening spaco and As for San Giacinto, his own interosta wero vit SANT' ILARIO 51 The very infinitely more absorbing to his attention than not only themselves in earnest; each knew those of the world at large, and being a man of instinetively that the other would be faithful, uncommonly steady nerves, it seems probable a condition extremely rare in ordinary cases. that he would have calmly pursued his course in Each recognised that theobstacles wereenormous, tho midst of nitich greator disturbances than but neither doubled for a moment that means those which affected Rome at that time. would be found to overcome then. In some countries the marriage of these two would have been a simple matter onough. A man of the world, honourable, successful, CHAPTER VIII beginning to be famous, possessed of some fortune, night aspire to marry anyono le pleased WHEN Anastase Gouache was at last relievel in lands where it is not a disgrâce to have from duty and went homo in the grey dawn of acquired the means of subsistence by one's own the twenty-third, he lay down to rest expecting talent and industry. Artists and poets have to reflect upon the events of the night. The sometimes made what are called great marriages. last twelve hours had been the most eventful But in Romo, twenty years ago, things were of his lifo; indeed less than that time had very different. It is enough to consider the elapsed since he hail bid farewell to Faustina in way in which Montevarchi arranged to dispose the drawing-room of the Palazzo Saracinesca, of his daughter Flavia to understand the light and yet the events which had occurred in that in which ho would have regarded Faustina's short spaco had done much towards making him marriago with Anastaso Gouache. another man. The change had begun two years name of Gouacho would have raised a laugh in earlier, and had progressed slowly until it the Montevarchi household had anyone sugwas completed all at onco by a chain of un- gested that a woman of that traditionally correct foreseen circumstances. Ho realised the fact, race could ever make it her own. There were and as this change was not disagreeable to hiin persons in Rome, indeed, who might have conhe set himself to think about it. Instead of sidered the matter morc leniently. Corona Sant' reviewing what had happened, however, ho did Ilario was one of these ; but her husband and what was much more natural in his case, ho father-in-law would havo opened their eyes as turned upon his pillow and fell fast asleep. I willo as old Lutario Montevarchi himself, had was younger than his years, though he counted the match been discussed before them. Their less than thirty, and his happy nature had not patriarchally exclusive souls would have been yet formed that horrible habit of wakefulness shocked and the dear fabric of their inborn which will not yield oven to bodily fatigue. prejudices shaken to its deepest foundations. He lay down and slept like a boy, disturbed by It was bad enough, from the point of view of no dreams and troubled by no shadowy revival potential matrimony, to carn money, even if one of dangers or emotions past. had the right to prefix "Don" to one's baptismal He had placed a gulf between himself and his name. But to be no Don and to receivo coin former life. What had passed between him and for one's labour was a far niore insurmountable Faustina might, under other circumstances, barrier against inter-marriage with the patriarchs have become hut a romantic cpisodo in the past, than hereditary madness, toothless old age, to be thought of with a certain tender regret, leprosy, or lack of money. half fatuous, half genuino, whenever the moon Gouache had acquired enough knowledge of light chanced to cast the right shadow and the Roman life to understand this, and nothing artist's mind was in the contemplative moul short of physical exhaustion would have pre- The peculiar smell of broken nilsonry, when rented his spending his leisure in considering it is a lịttle damp, would recall the impression, the means of overcoming snch stupendous perhaps; an old wall knockel to picces by difficulties. When ho awoke his situation prebuilders would, through his nostrils, bring nted itself clearly enough to his inind, however, vividly before him that midnight meeting amil and occupied his thoughts throughout the 'the ruins of tho barracks, just as the savour of remainder of the day. Owing to the insurreca certain truftlo might bring back the memory tion, his departure was delayed for twenty-four of a supper at Voisin’s, or as, twenty years hours, and his duty was likely to keep him hence, the pasty grittiness of rough maize bread busily engaged during the short time that would make him remember the days when he remained to him. The city was in a state of was chasing brigands in the Sanınite hills. But siege, and there would be a perpetual service this was not to be tho cuse this time. There was of patrols, Sentries, and general maintenance Imore piatter for reminiscence than a ray of of order. The performance of labour's almost moonlight on a fair face, or the smell of mechanical left him plenty of time for reflection, cruinbling mortar. though he found it hard to share a moment in There was a deep and sincere devotion on which to see any of his friends. both sides, in two persons both singularly He was very ansions to meet the Princess capable of sincerity, and both foresaw that the Sant'Ilario, whose conduct on the provious night result of this lovo could never be indifference. had serionsly alarned him. It was to her that The end could only be exceeding happiness, or ho looked for assistance in his troubles and the mortal sorrow. Anastaso and Faustina were consciousness that she was angry with him was . 52 SANT? ILARIO CH. a chief source of distress. In the course of the Conversation under these citumustauces was fow words ho had exchanged with her, she had' manifestly impossible, and Gouacho wished he made it sufficiently clear to hin that although had not had the unlucky idea of calling. There she disapprovod in principle of his attachment was nothing to be dono, however, but to put on to Faustina, she would do nothing to hinder his a brave faco and make the best of it. marriage if he should be ablo to overcome the Well, Monsieur Gouache,” inquired the old obstinacy of the girl's parents. He was at tirst prino, "and low did you spend the night?” at a loss to explain her severity to him when lle could scarcely have asked in question better she had left lier house to take Faustina home. val:ulated to listurb the composure of every Boing, wholly innocent of any share in the one present except the baby. 'Anastaso could latter's müel course, it did not at first enter his not help looking at ivrona, who looked inmind that Corona could attribute to him any stinctively at her husband, while the latter blame in the matter. On the contrary, he knew gazed at Gotitele, wondering what he woull' that if the girl's visit to the ruined barracks say. All three turned a shade palor, and remained a secret, this would be owing quite as during a very few seconds there was an much to his own discretion and presence of awkward silence. mind as to the princess's willingness to help "! pent the night very uncomfortably," him. Not a little, ton, was clue to gooul luck, replied Anastase, after hesitating a little. "Wo siico the least difference in the course of events were driven from pillar to post, repelling must have led to innicchiate discovery. attarks, doing sentry luty, clearing the streets, A little thought led him to a conclusion marching and countermarching. It was day. which wounded his pride while it explained light when I was reizvedl." Corona's behaviour. It was evident that she Indeed!" exclaimed Sant' Ilario. “I had had believed in a clandestine netinis, pre supposed that you hard remained all night at times arranged between tho lovers at the instigation Porta San Paolo, But there are many contra. of Gouache himself, and she had probably dictory accounts. I was in some anxiety until supposed this meeting to be only the preliminary I was assured that you had not been blown up 10 a runaway match. Ilow, iucleul, coulil in that infernal plot. l'austina have expected to escape observation, linnacle was on the point of asking who baud eren liad there been no revolution in Rome, that todel Giovanni that he had escaped, but fornight? Corona clearly thought that the girl tunately checked himself, tu endeavoured to had never intended to come back, that livechip tun thic conversation to the disaster at the had devised means for their departure, and that lemmicks. Thereupon oli Saracinesca, whoso Faustina had believed the elopement peronibile in blead was rousel by the atro.ity, clelivereel it the face of the insurection. cuid: til, onitorrible: immatliepit against the murderous finding himsoli in the small hours of the morning w: Pribes who hatci ruined the building, and with Faustinit on his hands and kuowing that "files:el bimself in fivour of burning them (liscovery must follow soon after diepbreak, haul, live, i fate, indeed, fir 100 fol for them. boldly bronght her to the Palazzo SararimsiaInstise profited by the old gentleman's cloand had deruandel Coroa's isxistanter, quence to make advanes to Die baby. Lillios as the artist thoughi the matter over, he Orsin, however, struck him a vigorous blow in Lecame more and more convinced that he had the face with his tiny list and yoilead lustily. mlerstond the princess's Conduct, 3:41 the " He does live like strangers, reinarker reflection marie him richen with stand und Corona, coldly: She: 1090 with the child in her anger. He determined to seize the first ment arms and moved towards the cloor, Connchu that presented itself for an explanation with the following boer with the intention of opening it woman who had wronged him. Ilu on for her to go onlit. The prince was still thun pectedly found himself at liberty iowarels live:<trying out illt'se's ainst the conspirators, and w clock in the afternoon and male lasten kemialul se allemaal tro sity i won mobscrveel to reach the Palace Saracinextil. Knowing is Criroda palsson liim. that no one would be allowed to lure in the " Will you not give me i bering?" 1:02 asked strerts ifter dark, be felt -17% of living Corint in a low lona, BC, Repying bis worls with an without visitors, and exprobred the most favour: imploring look. able opportunity for tallsing over the subject Corovit raisced herectronsklightly, as though which distresser him. -Iriscal, lout: la expression of termino contri- After waiting several minutes inse of thon tion softere born beart a little and roulerel bor ontor halls to was ushered in, and to his extreme ansuo perlait trillo less unkind Umw she hail amoyance found himself in the midst of a fiuuily meantii tolk. party. .lle lad 110 counterl upon the presence "You should 10 satisfied. Since I keep your of the men of the household, and the firct that pret,' she said, and passed quickly out. the baby was also present did not facilitato When Gouache turned after closing the door matters. On Saracinesca greeted hini warmly; he was aware that Sant'Ilario hael boen watuhing Sant' Ilario lookal grave; Corona herself looked him, by the fixed way in which he was now up from her game with little Orsino, nodded looking in another direction, The Zouavo and utterer a word of recognition, and then wished more and noro fervt:ntly that he had not · returned to her occupation. come to the house, but resolve to prolong his !

VIII SANT' ILARIO 53 visit in the hope that Corona might return. girl, of her own free will and out of love for. Sant Ilario was unaccountably silent, but his you, followed you out of this room last night fathor, kept up a lively conversation, needing into the midst of a revolution. It is a hard only an occasional remark from Gouacho to give thing to believe a fillip to his eloquence. “And yet I implore you to believe it, This situation continued during nearly half- princess. A man wlio should love her less than an-hour, at the end of which time Anastase gavo I, would bo the basest of men to speak thus of up all hope of seeing Corona again. The two hor love. knowsbeen they maidemalle , , themselves comfortable and had wils there any other way of taking her home? lighted their cigarettos. Did I not do the only thing that was at all Good-bye, Monsieur Gouache," said the old possiblo to keep last night's doirige a secret? prince, cordially shaking him by the hand. I love her to such a point that I glory in her * I hope we shall see you back again alive and love for me. If I could have shieldled her last well in a few days." night by giving up my life, you know that Whilo he was speaking Giovanni had rung tho I would have enclad niy existence that very bell for the servant to show the visitor ont, an moment. It would have done no good. I had insignificant action, destined to produce a rather to confide in someone, and you, who knew half singular result. Sant'Ilario himself, feeling my secret, since I had told you I loved her, that after all he might never seo Gouache alive were the only person who could be allowed to again, repented a little of his coldness, and guess the reinainder. If it could profit her while the latter stood ready to go, detained that you should think mo a villain, you might him with a question as to his destination on think me so--even you, whom I reverence leaving the city. This resulted in a lively dis- beyond all women save her. But to let you cussion of Garibaldi's probable movements, think so would be to degrade her, and that you which lasted several ininntes. shall not do. You shall not think that she has Corona in the meantimo had taken Orsino been so foolish as to pin her faith on a man who back to his murse, and had bidden her maid let I would lead her to destruction-ah ! if I loved her know when tho visitor in the drawing-room her less I could tell you better what I mean.' was gone. The woman went to the hall, and Corona was moved by his sincerity, if not by when Giovanni rang the bell, returned to inform his arguments. She saw all the strangeness of her mistress of the fact, supposing that Gouache the situation; how he had been forced to voull goat once. Corona waited a few minutes, contide in someone, and how it seemed better in and then went back to the sitting-room, which his eyes that she should know how Faustina was at the end of the long suite of apartment.. hul really behaved, than think that the young The result was that she met Anastuse in one of girl had agreed to a premeditated meeting. tho rooms on his way out, preceded by the Sho was touched and her heart relented. footman, who went on towards the hall after his “I believe you," she said. "Forgive mo if mistress had passerl. Corona and Gonacho were' I have wronged you." Jeft face to face and quite alone in the huge dim Thank you, thank you, dear princess ! drawing-room. Gouache had found his oppor- cricd Gouache, taking her hand and touching it tunity, and did not hesitate. with his lips. never thank you as Madame,” he said, "I beg your paridon for I would. And now, good-liyeI am going trepassing on your time, but I have a serious Will you give me your blessing, as my mother word to say. I am going to the frontier, and would ! Ho smiled is he rucalled the conam as likely to be killecl as anyone else. On the versation of the previous evening. faith of a man who may be dear to morrow, I am “Good-byo,” answered Corona. "May all wholly innocent of what happened last night. blessings go with you." He turned away and If I come back I will prove it to you some day. she stood a moment louking after him as he If not, will you believo me, and not think of me disappeared in the gloom. unkindly?" Sho was sorry for him in her heart and Corona hesitate, and stood leaning against repented a little of having treated him so the heavy curtain of a window for il moment. harshly. And yet, as soon as he was gone sho Though the room was very dim, she could see began to doubt again, wondering vaguely the honest look in the young man's eyes, anıl whiother she has not been deceived. There was she hesitated beforo sho answered. She had an odd fascination about the soldier-artist heard that day that two of her acquaintances which somehow influenced her in his favour had fallen fighting against the Garibaldians and when he was present, and of which she was not she knew that Anastase was speaking of a very conscious until he was out of her sight. Now near possibility when he talked of beingu killed. that she was alone, she found herself considering Thóro were many chances that ho was telling bow this peculiar charm which he possessed the truth, and she felt how deeply sho should would be likely to affect a young girl like regret her unbelief if ho should indeed meet Faustina, and she was obliged to acknowledge his fate before they met again. that it would account well enough for the You tell mo a strange thing," she said at latter's foolish doings. She could not look into lust. “You ask me to believe that this poor Gouache's eyes and doubt what ho said, but she "I can SANT ILARIO " You She was roused from her short reflection by on his side, had noticed hor marked coldness to CI.. sound it hard afterwards to explain the faith not think of lying in wait for fier. His put in hins. accidental coming seemed premeditated. He tier husband who, without being observed by Anastase in the sitting room, and thought it hier, had come to her side. Seeing that she did contrasted very strangely with the over-friendly not return to the sitting-room when Gouache parting of which he had chancod to be a witness. was gone he had come in search of her, and by Corona, too, knew very well that tho last words the morcst chance ad overheard tho last words spoken woro capable of misinterpretation, and which had passed between her and Anastaso, as she had no intention of telling her husband and had seen how the latter forvently kissed her Faustina's story at present, she saw no way of hand. The phrase in which she had wished clearing up the situation, and therefore prepared hint good luck rang unpleasantly in his ears to ignore it altogether. and startled the inniost sensibilities of his They turned together and walked slowly back nature. He remembered how she had blessed in the direction of the sitting-room, neither him once, in her calm, gentle way, on that speaking a word until they had almost reached memorable night of the Frangipani ball nearly the door. Then Giovanni stopped and looked three years before, and there was a similarity at his wife. between the words she had used then and the “Is it part of last night's scoret ?” he asked, simple expressiou which had now fallen from almost indifferently. her lips. "Yes," answered Corona. “ What could you Giovanni stood beside her now, and laid his supposo it was? I met him by accident and we hand upon her arm. It was not his nature to exchanged a few words." break out, suddenly as his father did when any. “I know. I heard you say good-bye. I conthing occurred to disturb his peace of mind. fess I was surprised. "I thought you meant to The Spanish blood he had inherited from his be rude to him when we were all together, but mother had imparted a profound reserve to his I was mistaken. I hope your blessing will character, which gave it depth rather than protit hin, my clear!” He spoke quite naturally coldness. It was hard for him to speak out and without effort. violently when under the influence of emotion, “I hope so too," returned Corona. but this very difficulty of finding words and might have added yours, since you were prehis aversion to using them made him more sent." siucere, more enduring and less forgiving than “To tell the truth," said Giovanni, with other men. He could wait long before he gave a short laugh, “I fancy it might not have been vent to his feelings, but they neither grew cool so acceptable." nor dull for the waiting. He detested con "You talk very strangely, Giovanni !" cealment and secrecy more than most people, “Do I? It seems to mo quite natural. Shall but his disinclination to speak of any matter we go into the sitting-room?" until he was sure of it has given him the "Giovanni-you promised to trust me last reputation of being both reticeut and calculating: night, and I promised to explain everything to Giovanni now no longer concealed from himself you sone day. You must keep your promise the fact that he was annoyed by what was wholly or not at all.” passing, but he denied, even in his heart, that Cortainly,” answered Sant'Ilario, opening ho was jealous. To doubt Corona would be to the door for his wife, and thus forcing the conupset the whole fabric of his existence, which versation to end suddenly, since old Saracinesca he had founded upon her love, and which had must now hcar whatever was said. been built up to such great proportions during He would not allow the situation to last, for the past three years. His first impulse was to fear lest he should say something of which he ask an explanation, and it carried him just far might repent, for in spite of his words he did enough to lay his hand on his wife's arm, when not wish to seein suspicious. Unfortunately, it was checked by a nultitude of reflections Corona's evident annoyance at having been and unconscious argunients which altogether overheard did more to strengthen the feeling of changed his determination. rosentment which was growing in him than “I thought he was gone," he said, quietly what he had heard and seen a few monients enough. earlier. The way in which she had reproached "So did I," replied Corona, in a cooler tone him with not adding his blessing to hers showed than she generally used in speaking to her plainly enough, he thought, that she was angry hushani. at what had occurred. They both entered the She, too, was annoyed, for she suspected that roon, but before they had been long together Giovanni had been watching her; and sinco on Giovanni left his wife and father and retired to the previous evening he had promised to trust his owne room under pretext of writing letters lier altogether in this affair, she looked upon until dinner-time. his coming almost in the light of an infringement When he was alono, the situation presented upon the treaty, and resented it accordingly. itself to his mind in a very disagreeable light, Sho did not reflect that it was unlikely that Corona's assurance that the mystery was Giovanni should expect her to try to meet harmless one seemed wholly inadequate to Gouacho on his way out, and would therefore account for her meeting with Gouache and for a VIH SANT' ILARIO 55 her kind treatment of him, especially after she the drawing-room, enacted quietly enough and had shown herself so evidently cold to him in in a corner, while there were twenty persons the presenco of the others. Either Giovanni was present, but with the coolness of two people of a very silly fellow, or he was being deceived as the world who know what surprising things no man was ever deceived before. Either con- may be done unobserved in a room full of people. clusion was exasperating. He asked himself If Anastase had kissed Corona's hand a little whether he was such a fool as to invent a mis- differently, and with the evident intention of construction upon occurrences which to anyono being seen, the action would have been natural. else would have seemed void of any importance But there was a look in Gouacho's face which whatsoever; and his heart answered that if he Giovanni remembered, and an expression of wore indeed so senseles; he must have lost his kindness in Corona's eyes that he had not for. intelligence very recently. On the other hand, gotten ; abovo all, they had both seemed as to suspect Corona of actually entertaining a though they were sure that no one was watching secret passion for Gouache was an hypothesis them. Indeed, Sant'Ilario now asked himself which seemed too monstrous to be discussed. how he had chanced to see what passed, and the He sat down to think about it, and was sud- only answer was that he generally watched denly startlod by the host of little circumstances them when they were together. This was a which all at once detached themselves from the revelation to himself, and told much. Then hazy past and stood out in condemnation of his there was her midnight expedition with Gouache, wife. Gouache, as he himself had acknowledged, a far more serious matter. After all, he had only had long worshipped the princess in a respectful, Corona's own assurance that Faustina Montealmost reverential way. He had taken every varchi had been in any way concerned in that occasion of talking with her, and had expressod extraordinary piece of rashness. Ho nust in even by his outward manner a degree of devo- deed have had faith in his wife to pass over such tion ho never manifested to other women. conduct without a word of explanation. Next: Giovanni was now aware that for some time came the events of that very afternooi. Corona past, even as far back as the previous winter, he had been rude to Gouache, had then suddenly had almost unconsciously watched Corona and left the room, and in passing out had exchanged Anastase when they were together. Nothing a few words with him in a low tone. She had in her conduct had excited his suspicions in the met him again by accident, if it had been an least, but he had certainly suspected that accident, and fancying herself unseen had be. Gouachowasalittle inclined to idolise her, and had haved very differently to the young man. There laughed to himself more than once at the idea of had been a parting which savoured unpleasantly the French artist's hopeless passion, with some- of the affectionate, and which was certainly thing of that careless satisfaction a man feels who something more than merely friendly. Lastly, seesa less favoured mortal in dangerous proximity Corona had evidently been annoyed at Giovanni's to a flame wbich burns only for himself. It was appearance, a fact which seemed to conclude the rather a contemptiblo amusement, and Giovanni whole argument with a terrible certainty. had never indulged in it very long. He liked Finding himself face to face with a conclusion Gouache, and, if anything, pitied him for his which thrcatened to destroy his happiness hopeless passion. Corona treated the Zouave altogether, Giovanni started up from his chair in her grand, quiet way, which had an air of and began to walk backwards and forwards in protection with it, and Giovanni would have the room, pansing a moment each time he turned, scoffed at the thought that she cared for the as though to gather strength, or to shake off an Nevertheless, now that matters had evil thonght. In the light of his present re. taken such a strange turn, he recollected with flections an explanation seemed inevitable, but surprise that Gouache was undeniably the one when he thought of that lie saw too clearly that of all their acquaintance who most consistently any'explanation must begin by his accusing his followed Corona wherever they met. The young wife, and he knew that if he accused her justly, inau was a favourite in society. His great it would only end in a denial from her. What talent, his modesty, and above all what people woman, howevur guilty, would not deny her were pleased to describe as his harmlessness, guilt when charged with it. What man either, made overy body like him. He went everywhere, where love way concerned ? Giovanni laughed! and his opportuwitics of meeting the princess bitterly, then turned palo and sat down again. were almost numberless. Giovanni haul certainly To accuse Corona of loving Gouache ! It was watched him vory often, though ho was hardly too monstrous to be beliered. And yet--what conscious of having bestowed so much attention did all those doings mean? Thero must bo on tho French artist-soldier, that he never a reason for them. If he called her and told failed to glance at his wife when Anastase was her what he felt, and if sho were innocent, mentioned. she would tell him all, everything would be Now, and all at once, a hundred details rushed explained, and he would doubtless see that all to his recollection, and he was staggered by the this damning evidence was no more than the vista of incidents that rose before his mind. natural outward appearance of perfectly harm- Within the last twenty-four hours, especially, less circumstances of which he knew nothing. the evidence had assumed terrible proportions. Ay, but if they were harmless, why should she In the first place, thero hnd boen that scene in implore him to ask no questions ?" Because the man, 56 SANT' ILARIO CH. course, honour of someone else was concerned, of course. Gouache, a Zouave! Gounche, al contemptibly *But was he, Giovanni Saracinesca, not to bo good-natured, harınless little foreigner and trusted with the keeping of that other person's Corona del Carmine, Duchessa d'Astrardente, honour as well as Corona herself? Had they Principessa di Sant'Ilario, mother of all the ever had secrets from each other? Would it not Saracinesca yet to come! It was better to have been simpler for her to trust him with the laugh, truly, at such an absurd juxtaposition of story, if she was innocent, than to be silent and ideas; of personalities, of high and low. And ask him to trust her motives? Far simpler, of Giovanni laughed, but the sound was very And then, if only a third person's feel- harsh and died away without rousing one honest ings were at stake, what necessity had there echo in the vaulted room. been for such a sentimental parting ? She had Had Corona scen his face at that inomont, or given Gouache a blessing very like the one she had she guesserl what was passing in hiæ mind, had given Giovanni. . Worst of all, wero not the she would have sacrificed Faustin's secret ten circumstances the same, the very samo? times over rather than let Giovanni suffer Giovanni remembered the Frangipani ball. a moment longer as he wris sufforing now. But At that time Corona was married to Astrar lente, Corona had no idea that he could put such who had died a few days afterwards. Giovanni a construction upon her doinga. He had shown had that night told Corona that he loved her, her nothing of what he folt, except perhaps in very passionate terms. She had silenced him, a slight annoyance at not being put in possession and he had behavert like a gentlenian, for he hal of the secret. It was natural, she thought, asked her parıon for what he hail clone. She, that he should be a little out of temper, but as had forgiven him, and to show that she boro no sho saw 110 way of remerlying tho trouble malico had spoken a kind of benediction-a'except ly exposing to him tho innocent girl prayer that all might he well with him. He whom she has undertaken to protect, shu held know now that she had loved him even then her peace and trusted that her husband's diswhen sho ropelled him. pleasure would soon be past. Blad there been And now that she was married to (iiovanni, more time for reflection on the previous evening, another had come, and had talked with her, and in the interval between her learning from the exchanged words in a low tone even as he him- porter that Giovanni knew of her absence and self had once done. And she had treate this her being confronted with Giovanni hinself, she man roughly before her husband, and presently might have resolvel to act differently ; but afterwards had allowed him to kiss her hanil/having once made up her mind that he ought and had sent him away saying that she forgavo not to know the truth for the present, opposition him-just as she hail formerly forgiven Giovanni only strengthened her determination. Thero --and praying that all blessings might go with was nothing wrong in the course she was him. Why was it not possible that stiv loved pursuing, or her coilcience would have spokon this man, too? Because she was so grandly and hidden her speak out. Her riaturo was beautiful, and dark and calm, and had such a too liko (iiovanni's own, prourl, reserverl, and noblo fearlessness in her eyes? Other women ontwardly coll, to yield any point ensily. It had been beautiful and had deceiverd wjser men was her instinct, like his, to be silent rather than Giovanni, and had fallen. Beauty was n.) than to speak, and to weigh considerations argument for the defence, nur brave eves, nor the before acting upon them. This very similarity magnificent dignity of movement'and speech-- of tempor in the two renueruel it certain that if nor words either, for that natter, they were ever opposed to cach other the Suspense was agony, and yet a twofold horror struggle woull bo i serious one. They were seemed the only issut, the one inevitable, the both too strong to learl a life of petty quarrel. other possible. Firet, to accuse this woman ling; if they ceased to live in perfect harmony whom he loved so dearly, and then, perhaps, to they wero ouly too suro to come to open hostility: hear her deny the charge boldly and yet refuge There is nothing which will wound pride and all explanation. Once more Giovanni rose from raise anger so inevitably as finding unexpected his deep chair and pared his room with regular but determined opposition in those who very strides, though be scarcely saw the carpet closely l'esc-unbole ourselves. In such a under his feet, nor realised any longer where he il man cannot fall back upon the comfortablo At last he stopped and laughed. The alterrative of despising his ermy, since he hng sound was strange ani false, as when a man an intimate conviction that it would be puratries to he merry who feels no mirth. mount to despising himself; and if he is led Ile was making a desperate effort to shake off into a pitched battle he will find his foo this nightmare that beset him, to say to himself prinsessed of weapons which are exactly like that he was but a fool, and that there was no his own. cause for all this suffering which he was inflicting Giovanni and Corona very evenly on his heart, nor for all these questions he hasi matcha, as nearly resembling each other als been asking of his intelligence. It was surely is possible for a man and a woman. Corona not true! He wonld laugh now, would laugh was outwardly a little the colder, Giovinni heartily within the next'nalf-hour with Corona a little the more resentful of the two. Corona herself, at the mere thought of supposing that had learned during the yoars of her marriage sho could love Gouache, Couache, a painter! with Astrardento io wear a mask of sereho · Caso WAS. were VIII SANT' ILARIO 57 indifferenco, and the assumed habit had at last bccome in some degreo a part of her nature. CHAPTER IX Giovanni, whose first impulses had originally been quicker than they now were, had learned The excitement which had reigned in Rome the power of waiting by constant intercourse for weeks past was destined to end almost as with his father, whose fiery temper seemed to suddenly as it had begun. The events which snatch at trifles for the mere pleasure of tearing followed the 22nd of October have been then to pieces, and did injustice to the generous frequently and accurately described ; indeed, if heart he concealed under his rough exterior. we consider the small nunber of the troops Under these circturnstinces it was not probable engaged and tho promptness with which a very that Sant'Ilario would make any exhibition limited body of nien succeeded in quelling what of his jealousy for some timo to come. As he at first appeared to be a formidable revolution, paced the floor of his room, the bitterness of we are surprised at the amount of attention his situation slowly sank from the surface, which has been accorded to the little campaign. leaving his face calm and almost serene. Ho The fact is that although the armies enployer forced himself to look at the facts again and on both sides were insignificant, the questions at again, trying bravely to be impartial and to stake were enormous, and the real powers which survey them as though he were tho judge aud | found themselves confronted at Monto Rotondo not the plaintiff. llo aclmitted at last that and Montana were the kingdom of Italy and there was unloubtedly abundant matter for the French Empire. Until the ultimatum was jealousy, but Corona still stoor protected as it presenteel to Italy by the French minister on were by the love he bore her, a love which even the 19th of October, Italy hoped to take possosller guilt would be unable to destroy. His love, sion of Rome on the pretext of restoring orderindeed, must outlast everything, all evil, all after allowing it to be subverted by Garibaldi's disgrace, and he knew it. lIo thought of that guerillas. The military cordon forined by the Latin poet who, writing to his mistress, said in Italian army to prevent Garibaldi's crossing thu the bitterness of his heart that though she were frontier was a mere show. The arrest of the to become the best woman in the world he could leader himself, however it was intended by those nover again respect her, but that he could not who ordered it, turned out in effect to be cease to love her, were sho guilty of all crimes. a mere comedy, as he soon found himself at He knew that if the worst turned out true liberty, and no one again attempted to seize that must be his case, and perhaps for the first him. When France interfered the scale turned. time in his life ho understool all the humanity She asserted her determination to maintain the of Catullus, and saw how a man might love even Convention of 1864 by force of armis, and what he despised. Italy wils obliged to allow Garibaldi to be de- Hlappily, inatters had not yet come to that. featedl, since she was unable to face the perils He know that he might be deceived, and that of a war with her powerful neighbour. If circumstantial evidence was not always to be a small body of French troops had not entered trusted. Even while his leart grew cold with 'Rome on the 30th of the month, the ovents the strongest and most deadly passion of which of 1870 would have occurred twee years earlier, man is capable, with jealousy which is cruel though probably with different results. as the grave, the nobility of his naturo rose up It being the object of the general commanding and maio him sco that his duty was to believe the l'ope's forces to concentrato a body of men Corona innocentuntil she were proved unfaithful. with whom to meet Garibaldi, who was now The effort to quench the flamo was great, though advancing boldly, the small detachments, of fruitless, but the determination to cover it and which many had already been sent to the front, hide it from everyone, even fron Corona herself, were kept back in Romo in the hope of getting appealed to all that was brave and manly in together something like an arnry. Gouache's his strong character. When at last he once departure was accordingly delayed from day to noro sat down, his face betrayed no emotion, day, and it was not until the early morning of his eyes were quiet, his hands did not tremble. the 3rıl of November that ho actually quitted He took up a book and forced his attention upon Rome with the wholo available corps of Zouaves. the pages for nearly an hour without interrup- Ten days elapsed, therefore, after tho events tion. Then he drossed himself, and went and sat last described, during which time he was hourly at table with his father and his wife as though in expectation of orders to march. The service nothing had occurred to disturb his equanimity. had bocomo so arduous within the city that he Corona supposed that he had recovered from could scarcely call a moment his own. It was his aifnoyanco at not being admitted to share the no time to think of social duties, and he spent secret for which sho was unconsciously sacrificing the leisure he haul in trying to see Faustina So much. She had expectel this resulta and Montevarchi as often as possible. was, more than usually cheerful. Once old This, however, was no easy matter. It was Saracinesca mentioned Gouache, but both Corona a provoking fact that his duties kept him busily and Giovanni hastened to change the subject. occupied in the afternoon and evening, and that This time, however, Giovanni did not look at his the hours he could command fell almost always wife when the name was' pronounced. Those in the morning. To visit the Palazzo Montedays were over now.. varchi on any pretext whatever before one o'clock 58 m SANT' ILARIO CH. in the day was out of the question. He had not The porter replied that she was not visible, even the satisfaction of seeing Faustina drive and that the prince had gone out. There was past him in the Corso when she was out with nothing to be done, and ho turnerl to go away. her mother and Flavia, since they drove just at Suddenly he stopped as he stood under the the time when he was occupied. Gouache told deep arch, facing the blank' wall on the himself again and again that the display of opposite side of the street, That same wall ingenuity was in a measure the natural duty was broad and smooth and dark in colour.. of a man in love, but the declaration did not He only looked at it a momont, and then to help him very much. He was utterly at a loss excuse his hesitation in the oyes of the porter, for an expedient, and suffered keenly in being he took out a cigarette, and lit it before deprived of the possibility of seeing Faustina going out. As he passed through the Piazza after having seen her so often and so intimately. Colonna a few minutes later, ho went into a A week earlier he could have horne it better, shop and bought two large tubes of paint with but now the scparation was intolerable. In a broad brush. That night, when ho was tiine of peace he would have disobeyed orders relieved from duty, he went back to the Palazzo and thrown up his servico for the day, no Montevarchi. It was very late, and the streets matter what the consequences turned out to be were deserted. Ile stood before tho great for himself ; but at the present moment, when closed doors of the palace and then walked every man was expected to be at his post, such straight across the street to the blank wall with conduct scemed dishonourable and cowardly, his paint and brush in his hands. -IIe submitted in silence, growing daily more On the following morning when the Montecaroworn, and losing much of the inexhaustiblo varchi porter opened the gates his eyes were gaiety which male him a general favourite with rejoiced by some most extraordinary specimens his comrades. of caligraphy executed upon the dark stones' There was but one chance of seeing Faustina, with red paint of a glaringly vivid hue. The and even that one offered little probability of letters A. G. were drawu at least four foct high an interview. He knew that on Sunday morn- in the centre, and were repeated in every size ings she sonotimes went to church at an early at irregular intervals for some distance above, hour with no one but her naid for a companion. below, and on each side. The words "Domenica," Her mother and Flavia preferred to rise lator Sunday, and “Messi," mass, were scrawlod and attended another mass. Now it chanced everywhere in capitals, in rourhand, large and that in the year 1867, the 22nd of October, the small. Then to give the whole the air of having date of the insurrection, fell on a Tuesday. Five been designed by a street boy, there were other days, therefore, must elapse before he could see worils, such as « Viva Pio IX.," » « Viva il Papa Faustina on a Sunday, and if he failed to see Re," and across these, in a different manner, her then he would have to wait another week. and in green paint, “ Viva Garibalzi," " Morte Unfortunately, Faustina's early expeditions a Antonelli," and similar revolutionary senti. to church were by no means certain or regular, ments. The whole, however, was so disposed and it would be necessary to convey a niessage that Gouacho's initials and the two important to her before the day arrived. This was no easy words stood out in bold relief from the rest, and matter. To send anything through the post could not fail to attract the eye. was out of the question, and Gouache knew how Of the many people who came and went that hard it would be to find the means of putting a day through the great gate of the Palazzo note into her hands through a servant. Hour Montevarchi two only attached any importance after hour he cudgelled his brains for an to the glaring scrawls on the opposite wall. expedient without success, until the idea pur. One of these was Faustina herself, who saw and ned him and made him nervous. T'he time understood. The other was San Giacinto, who approached rapidly, and he had as yet accom- stared at the letters for several seconds, and plished nothing. The wildest schemes suggested then smiled faintly as he entered the palace. themselves to him, and were rejected as coon as He, too, knew what the signs meant, and he thought of them. He met somo of his remarked to himself that Gouache was an enteracquaintances during the idle hours of the prising youth, but that, in the interest of the morning, and it almost drove him mad to think whole tribe of Montevarchi, it would be well to that almost any one of them could see Faustina put å stop to his love-making as soon as possible. any day he pleased. He did what he could to It was now Saturday afternoon and there was obtain leave in the afternoon or evening, but his no time to be lost. exertions were fruitless. He was a man who San Giacinto mado a short visit, and, on was trusted, and knew it, and the disturbed leaving, went immediately to the Palazze Sara. state of affairs made it necessary that every cinesca. He know that at four o'clock Corona man should do precisely what was allotted to. would probably not yet be at home. This him, at the risk of causing useless complications turned out to be the case, and having announced in the effort to concentrate and organise the his intention of waiting for her return he was troops which was now going forward. At last ushered into tho sitting-room. As soon as the ho actually went to the Palazzo Montevarchi in servant was gone he went to Corona's writing the morning, and inquired if lie could see the table and took from it a couple of sheets of princess. her paper and two of he. envelopes. These 22 IX SANT' ILARIO 59 latter were staniped with a coronet and her fashioned pincushion before the glass. The initials. He folded the paper carefully and put thing slipped, however, and in order to fasten it the four bits into his pocket-book. He waited firmly ho thrust a gold pin that lay on the table ten minutes, but no one came. Then he left through the letter and pinned it to the cushion the house, telling the servant to say that he had in a conspicuous position. Then he went out called and would return presently. In a few and returned to the Palazzo Saracinesca as he minutes he was at his lodgings, where he pro- had promised to do. ceeded to write the following note. He had In doing all this he had no intention of taken two sheets in case tho first proved injuring either Conacho or Faustina. Ho a failure : perceived clearly enough that their love affair “I have understood, but alas ! I cannot come. could not come to any good termination, and as Oh, my beloved ! wlien shall we meet again? his interests were now very closely bound up It seems years since Tuesday night--and yet with those of the Montevarchi, it seemed wisust I am so watched that I can do nothing. Some. to break off the aflair by any means in his oue suspects something. I am sure of it. A power, without complicating matters by spoaktrusty person will bring you this. I lovo you ing to Gouache or to Faustina's father or always do not doubt it, though I cannot meet mother. He knew enough of hunian nature to you to-morrow.' understand that Gouache would be annoyed at San Giacinto, who haul roceived a tolerable losing the chance of a meeting, and he promised education and had conscientiously made the hinself to watch the two so carefully us to be best of it, prided himself upon his handwriting: able to prevent other-clandestine interviews It was suall, clear, and delicate, like that of during the next few days. If he could once many strong, quiet men, whose nerves do not sow the seeds of a quarrel between the two, ho run away with their fingers. On the present fancied it would be easy to break up the occasion ho touk pains to mako it even more relations. Nothing makes a woman so angry as careful than usual, and the result was that it to wait for a man who has promise to nicet looked not unlike the "copper-plato" hand- her, and if he fails to come altogether her anger writing a girl would learn at the convent, will probably be very serious. In the present though an expert would probably have declared caso lo supposed that Faustina would go to the it disguised. It had been necessary, in orler to church, but that Gouache, being warned that he deceive Gonnche, to write the note on the paper was not to come, would not think of keeping generally used by women of society. As he the tryst. The schemo, if not profound, was act could not get any of Faustina's own, it sceined least likely to produce a good deal of trouble the next best thing to take Corona's, since between the lovers. Corona was her most intimato friend. San Giacinto returned to the Palazzo Sara- Gouacha had told San Giacinto that he was cinesca, but he found only the old princo at engaged every afternoon, in hopes that ho would home, thongh he prolonged his visit in the hopo in turn chance to mention the fact to Faustina. of secing Corona or Sant'Ilario. It was therefore pretty certain that Anastase By-the-byo,” he said, as he and his com. would not be at liome between four and five panion sat together in the princo's study, “I o'clock. San Giacinto drove to the Zouave's remember that you were so good as to say lodgings and asked for him. If he chanced to that you would let më seo those family. papers be in, the note could be given to his old land- some day. They must bo very interosting, and lady. He was out, however, and San Giacinto I would be glad to avail myself of your offer." asked to be allowed to enter the “Certainly,” replied Saracinesca. “They on the pretext of writing a word for his are in the Archives in a room of the library. friend. T'he laudlady was a dull old creature, It is rather lato now. 1)o you mind waiting who had been warming himself with a pot of till to-morrow?." coals when San Giacinto rang. In answer to “Not in the least, or as long as you like. To his request she resumed her occupation and tell the truth, I would like to show them to my pointod to the door of the Zouave's apartment. future father-in-law, who loves archæology. San Giacinto entered, and looked about him I was talking about then with him yesterday. for a conspicuous place in which to put the After all, howover, I supposo the duplicatos letter he had prepared. Ho preferred not to are at tho Cancelleria, and we can seo them trust to the memory of the woman, who might there." forget to deliver it until the next day, especially "I do not know," said the prince, carelessly, if Gouache came homo late that night, as was “ I never took the trouble to inquire. There is very likely. The table of the small sitting- probably some register of them, or soinothing to room was littered with lottors and papers, books prove that they are in existence." and drawings, so that an object placed in the “There must be, of course. Things of that midst of such disorder woull not be likely to importance would not be allowed to go unattract Gouache's attention. The door beyond registered, unless people were very indifferent was open, and showed a toilet-table in the in those days." adjoining chamber, which was indeed the “It is possible that there are 180 duplicates. bedroom. San Giacinto went in, and taking It may be that there is only an official notice of the note from his pocket, laid it on an old the deed giving the heads of the agreenient. room 60 SANT' ILARIO CIT. 6 You see it was a friendly arrangement, and her more regret than would have been natural there was supposed to be no probability what in the ordinary course of events. over that your great-grandfather would ever In order to explain what now took placo, it is marry. The papers I have are all in order and necessary to return to Giovanni himself who, as legally valid, but there may have been some Corona lind said, had waited for his wife near carelessness about registering them. I cannot the band-stand on the Pincio for some time, be sure. Indeel it is thirty years at least sinco until growing weary, he had walked away and I looked at the originals." left the gardens. “If you would have them taken out somo Though he manfully concealed what he felt, time before I am marricid, I should be glad to see the passion that had been sown in his heart haul them, but there is no hurry. So all this riot grown apace, and in a few days had assumed and revolutia has meant something after all," slominating proportions. He suspected everyadded San Giacinto to change the subject. thing and everybody while determined to appear “Garibaldi lias taken Monte Rotondo, I hear indiferent. Even Corona's efforts to please him, to-day." which of lato baul grown so apparent, caused Yes, and if the French are not quick, we bim suspicion. le asked himself wly her shall have the diversion of a siego, ripulied manner should have changed, as it undoubtedly Saracinesca rather scoriifully. That same haud during the last few days. She had always taking of Monte Rotondo was one of those been a good and loving wilo to him, and he was gallant deals for which Garibaldi is so justly well pleased with her gravity and her dignified famous. Jlo las six thonsand men, and there way of showing her affertion. Why should she were only three hundred and fifty sokliers'siniilenly think it needful to become so very inside. Twenty to one, or thereabouts, solicitous for his welfaro and happiness during It is unnecessary tu detail the remainder of every moment of his life? It was not like her the conversiltion. Sararinesca went off into to come into his study carly in the morning and loud abuse of Carilaldi, r-onfounding the whole to ask what he meant to do during the lay. Italian Government with him iurid (levoting all It wils a new thing that she should constantly to one common destruction, while San Giacinto propose to Wilk with him, to drive with him, to reserved his judgment, belioving that there was read aloud to him, to make herself not only a part probably a widle dillerence between the real of his dicart but a part of his occupations. Had the intentions of the guerillo general and of his change como gratinally, he would not have dislawful sovercign, Victor Emmanuel the Second, trusted her motives. He liked his wife's company King of Italy. At last the two men were in and conversation, but as they each had things to formed that Corona had returned. T -y left do which could not conveniently bedone together, the study and found her in the sitting-r :m. he had made up his mind to the existence Where is Giovanni?" she asked as oon as which was good enough for his companions in they entered. She was standing before the lire sexiety. Other men did not think of spending place clressed as she haul come in. the afternoon in their wives' carriages, leaving ** I have no idea where he is," replied Sara- cards or making visits, or driving round and cinesca. "I suppose he is at the club, or round the Villa Borgliese and the Pincio. making visits somewhere. He has turned into To do so was to be ridiculous in the exa very orderly boy since you married him." The treme, and besicles, though he liked to be old man laughed a little with Coruna, he detested visiting, and hatel "I lave miss him," sail Corona, taking no of all things to stop a dozen times in the notice of her father-in-law's remark. I was conse of a drive in order to send a footman to have picked loinn up on the l'incis, and when stairs with carils. The preferred to walk or I there he wits gone. I am so afraid he willito lounge in the club or to stay at home think I forgot all ico01it it, for I must have been and study the problems of his improvements late. You see, I was deliver by a crowl in the for Marrinescat Corona's inanner il'ritated Tritone--there is always a crowd there.' bim, therefore, and made him think more than Corona seemed less calm than usual. The ever of the subject which he would have done fact was, that since the affair which had also better to allon from the first. her husband so much annoyance, some small Nevertheless, he would not show that he was part of which she had perceiverl, she haul licen wearied by his wife's attentiis, still less that irying to make up to him for his clisappointinent ho believed her behaviour to be prompted hy in not knowing her secret, by bring with him a desire to deceive him. He was uniformly more than usual, and by exerting herself to courteous and gentle, acquiescing in her little please him in every way. They did not nenally plans whenever ho couid ilo so, and expressing mect during the afternoon, aks hie yenerally went ii suitable vegree of regret when he was preout on foot, while she drove, but to-day they rental from joining her by some previous had agreel that she should come to the Pincin engayement. But the image of tho Freituh and take him for a short drive and bring him Zouave was ever present with him. Ilo could home. The plan was part of her fixed intention not get rid of Gouache's dark, delicate features, to bo morocthan usually thoughtful where he even in his dreams; the sound of the man's was concerned, and the idea that she had kept pleasant voice and of his fluent conversation was him waiting and that he had gone away causcul constantly in his cars, and he could not look at IX SANT' ILARIO 61 . Corona without fancying how she would look if way. But Giovanni, on hearing that Aristaso Anastase were boxiclo ber whispering tendor was out, began to ask questions. speeches. “llas anyone been here?" he inquired. All tho timo, lio submitted withi in good grace "Eh! There will a gentleman il quilter of to do whatever she proposed, and on this after- in hour ago," replied the woman. noon he found himself waiting for her beside the " Has any latly been here! band stand. At first he watched the passing " A ladly? Macche ! The old creature carriages indifferently enough, supposing that, Jaughter. What should ladies du hero!" his own liveries would presently loon up in the Giovanni thought he detected some hesitation long line of high-seitted couchmon and lacqueys, in the tone. He was in the mood to fancy limand having no especial desire to sco them. Ilis self creceived by everyone. position when in Corona's company grow every "Are you fond of money?” he askert, brutally: day more difficult, and he thought as lo stool "Eh! I am an old woman. 'What would by the stone pillar at the corner that he would you have? Am I crazy that I should not like on the wholu be glari if she did not conio. To money? But Signor Gouache is a very gooul was egregiously mistaken in himself, however. gentleman. He pays well, thank loaven!" As the minutes passed he grew uncany, and " What does los pily you for?” watched the aulvancing (arriages with it feverish What for? For his lodging-for his coffec. anxiety, silying to himself that everyone must Bacchus ! What should lo pay mo for? bring Corona, and actually growing pale with Strange question in truth. Do I keep a shop! emotion its card vehicle turned the distant I keep breyinga. But perhaps you liko the comer and came into view. The time seemel place? It is il fine situation just in the Corso, interminablo after he had once yielded to the ind only one flight of stairs, a beautiful position excitement, and before another quarter of an for the Carnival. Of course, if you aro inclined hour bul clapsel, Sant Nario turneut angrily to pay more than Signor Gouache, I do not say a wiry and left the l'inciu by the stairs that but whict..." descend near the band-stud towards the wind I do not wint your loluings, my good ing alrivo by which the l'irlzza del Popolo is worun," returned liiovanni in gentler tones. reachedi. I want to know who comes to sve your It is not easy for person who is calın to lodger.' comprehend the workings of a brain over-excited Who should come? His friends, of course. with a strong passion. To il man who has lost Who else!" the sober use of his faculties in the belief that "A lac!y, perhaps," said Giovanni in a thick he has bern foully betrayal, every circumstance, voice. It hurt him to say it, and the words every insignificant accident, scemi il link in the almost stuck in his throat. " Perhaps a larly chain of evidence. A week earlier Giovani come's sometimes," he repealed, pulling out would have thought himself mad if the mers some loose bank unte's. idea had suggesturl itself to him that Corona The old woman's filmy eyes suddenly twinkledi loved Gouache. To-day he lelieveel that she in the gloom. The sound of the crisp pieces of had purposely sent him o wiit on the l'incio, paper wils delightful to her car. in order that she might be sure of seeing Well," she said, after it moment's hesita- Gouache without fear of interruption. The tion, “if a beautiful larly does come here, th:10 conviction thrust itself upon him with over is the Signore's afluir. It is none of my wholming force. He fancierd hiinself the dune business." of a common imposition, he saw his magnificent (iioramni thrust the notes into her palm, which love and trust made the sport of it vulgair trick. was alreauly wide open to receivo them. Ilis The blood mounted to his dark face, and it's he heart beat wildly. descondel the slips it red mist seemed to be She is beautiful, you say? spreal between his eyes in all surrounding "Oh! As beautiful as you please!” chuckleri objects. Though he wulkoil fimmly and the lag mechanically, silluting liis acquaintances its he: " Is she dark ?" passed, lie was unconscious of his actions, and "Of course," replied the woman. There was mover like a man under the influence of no mistaking the tone in which the question à superior force, Jealousy is that ono of all was asked, for Giovanni was no longer able to the passions which is most sure to break out conceal anything that ho felt. surldenly into derils of violence when long “ An tall, I supposo? Yes. And she was restrained. here a quarter of an hour ago, you say? Speak Giovanni scarcely know how he reached the out!” ho cried, advancing a step towarıls the Corso nor how it was that he found himself old creature. “If you lio to me, I will kill you ! ascending the dusky staircase which lel to She was hero-do not deny it." Couache's lodgings. It was less than a quarter “Yes--yes," answered the woman, cowering of an hour since San Giacinto had been there, back in sono terror. "Per carità! Dun't anu the old woman still hold her pot of coals murder nom --I tell you the truth.' in her hand as she opened the door. As sho With a sudden movement Giovanni turned on had pointed to the door when San Giacinto had his heel and entered Gouache's® sitting-room. come, so slio now directed Giovanni in the same. It was now almost dark in the house, and he 62 SANT' ILARIO CH: for It was " It Own. struoka match and lighted a candle that stood “You will say nothing of my coming," said on the table. The glare illuminated his swarthy Giovanni, fixing his eyes upon her. foatures and fiery eyes, and the veins stood out “I, Signore? Do not be afraid ! Money is on his foreheaul and temples liko strained and better than words.' twisted cords. He looked about hint in every Very good,” he answered. Perhaps you direction, examining the table, strewn with will get twice as much the next timo I want to papers and books, the floor, the furniture, know the truth.” expecting every moment to find something "God bless you !" chuokled the wrinkled which should prove that Corona had been thiere. creature. He went out, and the little bell that Seeing nothing, he entered the bedroom beyond. was fastened to the door tinkled as the latch It was a small chamber, and he had scarcely sprang back into its place. Then the woman passed thfough the door when he found himself counted the price of blood, which had so unexbefore the toilet table. The note San Giacinto pectedly fallen into her hands. The bank-notes had left was there pinned upon the little cushion were many and broad, and crisp and now, with the gold pin, as ho had placed it. Giovanni had not reckoned the cost. Giovanni stared wildly at the thing for long since old Caterina Ranucci had seen so several seconds, and his face grew deadly white. much money, and she had certainly never had so There was no evidence lacking now, for the pin much of her own. was Corona's own. It was a simplo enough object, Qualche innamorato !” she muttered to made of plain gold, the head being twisted into herself, as she smoothed the notes one by one the shape of the lotter C, but there was no mis- and gloated over them and built castles in the taking its identity, for Giovanni had designed it air under the light of her little oil lamp. himself. Corona used it for fastening her veil. is sone fellow in love. Heaven pardon me if As the blood sank from his head to his heart, I have done wrong! Ho seemed so anxious to Giovanni grew very calm. Ho set the candle know that the woman had been here--why upon the toilet-table and took the note, after should I not content him? Poveretto! Ho putting the pin in his pocket. The handwriting must be rich. I will always tell hin what he seemed to be feigned, and his lip curled scorn- wants to know. Heaven bring hiin often and fully as he looked at it, and then, turning it bless him." over, saw that the envelope was ono of Curona's Then she rocked herself backwards and for- It seemed to him a pitiable piece of folly wards, hugging her pot of coals and crooning in her to distort her writing when there was the words of an ancient Roman dittysuch abundant prouf on all sides to convict her. Io vorrei che nella luna Without the slightest hesitation ho opened the Ci s'andasse in carrettella letter and read it, bending down and holding it Per vedere la più bella near the candle. One pernsal was enough. Ho Delle comme ili la si ! smiled curiously as he read the words, “I am What does the old song mean? Who knows so watched that I can do nothing. Someone whether it over meant anything? “I wish one suspects something." His attention was arrested might drive in a little cart to the moon, to see by the statenient that a trusty person--the the most beautiful of the women up there!" words were underlined-would bring the note, Caterina Ranucci somehow felt as though sho The meaning of the enphasis was explained could express her feelings in no better way than by the pin ; the trusty person was herself, who, by singing the queer worrls to herself in her perhaps by an afterthought, harl left the bit of cracked old voice. Possibly she thought that gold as a parting gift in case Gouche narched the neighbours would not suspect her good before they met again. fortune if they heard her favourite song. Giovanni glanced orice more round the room, half expecting to find some other convicting piece of evidence. Then he hesitated, holding the candle in one hand and the note in the other. He thought of staying where he was and waiting for Gouache, but the idea did not seem CHAPTER X feasible. Nothing which implied waiting conld have satisfied him at that moment, and after SANT' ILARIO walked home, from Gouache's a few seconds he thrust the note into his pocket lodgings. The cool evening air refreshed him and went out. His hand was on the outer door, and helped him to think over what he had when ho remembered the old woman who sat before him in the noar future. Indeed, the crouching over her pan of coals, scarcely able to position was terriblo enough, and doubly so to believe her good luck, and longing for Giovanni's a inan of his temperament. He would have departure in order that she might count th faced anything rather than this, for there was crisp notes again. She dared not indulge herself no point in which he was more vulnerable than in that pleasure while he was present, lest he in his love for Corona. As ho walked her figure should repent of his generosity and take back rose before him, and her beauty almost dazzled a part of them, for she had seen how he had him when he thought of it. But he could no taken them from his pocket and saw that he had longer think of her without bringing up thąt no idea how much he hai given. othier being upon whoin his thonghts of vengeance * SANT' ILARIO 63 concontrated themselves, until it seemed as could not part from the woman he adorta. He though the mere intention must do its object thought of the grim old fortress at Saracinesca some bodily harm. with its lofty towers and impregnablo walls, and Tho fall was tremendous in itself and in its when he reflected that there was but one possible effects. It biust have been a great passion exit from the huge mass of buildings, he snid to indood which could make such a man demcau himself that Corona would be safe there for himself to bribe an inforior for information over. against his wife. He himself was so little able He had the instincts of a fierce and unforto measure the force by which he was swayed as giving race of men, who for conturies had held to bolievo that he had extracted the confession the law in their own hands, and were accustomed froin a reluctant accomplice. He would never to wield it as it scemer good in their own eyes. have itllowed that the sight of the money and It was not very long since the lords of Sarathe prompting of his own words could have cinesca had possessed the right ot'lifo and doath caused the old woman to invent the perfectly over their vassals,* and the hereditary traits of imaginary story which he had seemed so fully character which had been fostored by ages detormined to hear. He did not sco that of power had not disappeared with the decay Caterina Ranucci had merely confirmed each of foudalisin. Under the circunistances which statement ho had made himself, and had takon seemed imminent, it would not have been his bribe while laughing to herself at his folly. thought unnatural if Giovanni hnd confined his He was blinded by something which destroys wifo during the remainder of her days in his tho mental vision moro surely than auger, or castlo among the mountains. The i lea may hatred, or pride, or love itself. excito surprise among civilised Europeans wheu To somo extent he was to be pardoncil. The it is considered that the ovents of which chain of circumstantial evidence was consecutive I write occurred as recently as 1867, hut it and so convincing that many a just person would certainly have evoked few expressions of would have accepted Corona's guilt as tho only astonishıment among the friends of the persons possible explanation of what had happened. concerned. To Giovanni himself it seemed tho The discoveries he had just made would alone only possible conclusion to what was happening, have sufficed to set up a caso against her, and and tho determination to kill Gouacho and many an innocent reputation has been shattered imprison Corona for life appeared in his eyes by less substantial proofs. Had he not found neither barbarous nor impracticable. a letter, eviilently written in a foigned hand He did not hasten his pace as he went towards and penned upon his wife's own writing-paper, his home. There was something fateful in his fastened upon Gouache's table with her own pin? regular ster and marble face as he moved Had not the old woman confosserl.---- beforo he stealily to tho accomplishment of his purpose, had found the note, too--that a lady had been The fury which had at first possessed him, and there but a short tine before? Did not these whichi, if he had then encountered Gouache, facts agree singularly with Corona's having left woull certainly hare produced a violent outhim to wait for her during that interval in the break, had subsided and was lost in the certainty public gardens ? Above all, did not this con- of his dishonour, and in the immensity of the clusion explain at once all those things in her pain he suffered. Nothing remained to be done conduct which had so much disturbed him during but to tell Corona that he knew all, and to the past weck? inflict upon her the consequences of her crimo What was this story of Faustina Montevarchi's without delay. There was absolutely no hope disappearance? The girl was probably Corona's left that she might prove herself innocent, and innocent accomplice. Corona had left the house in Giovanni's own breast there was no hope at one o'clock in the morning with Gouache. either, no hope of ever finding again his lost The porter had not seen any other woman. The happiness, or of ever again setting ono stone fact that she had entered the Palazzo Monte- upon another of all that splendid labric of his yarchi with Faustina and without Anastase life which he had huilt up so confidently upon proved nothing, except that she had met the the faith of the woman he loved. young girl somewhere else, it mattered little As he reached the gates of his home he grew, where. The story that Faustina had accidentally if possible, paler than before, till his face was shut herself into a room in the palace was an positively ghastly to see, and his eyes seemed to invention, for even Corona admitted the fact. sink deeper beneath his brows, while their con- That Faustina's flight, however, and the other contrated light gleamed more fiercely. No one events of the night of the 22nd had been arranged saw him enter, for the porter was in his lodge, merely in order that Corona and Gouache might and on reaching the landing of the stairs walk in the moonlight for a quarter of an hour, Giovanni let himself into the apartments with Giovanni did not believe. There was some a latch-key. uther mystery here which was yet upsolved. Corona was in her dressing-room, a higli- Meanwhile the facts he had collected were enough-enough to destroy his happiness at * Until 1870 the right of life and death was still held, à single blow. And yet he loved Corona oven so far as actual legality was concerned, by the Dukes of now, and though his mind was made up clearly title, which had been sold and subsequently bought Bracciano, and was attached to the possession of the enough concerning Gouache, he knew that he back by the original holders of it.

64 SANT ILARIO CII. > “You aro Aro you vaulted chamber, somewhat sombrely furnished, blindly, feeling that any attempt to thwart him but made cheerful by a fire that blazed brightly must be utterly uscless. in the deep, old-fashioned chimney - piece. “I know what you have done,” he ani). Candles were lic upon the dressing-table, You can have nothing to say. Bo silofit and and a shaded lamp stood upon a low stand near listen to mo. You have destroyed the greatest a lounge beside the hearth. The princess was happiness the world ever knew. You have clad in a loose wrapper of somo soft, cream- dishonoured me and mine. You have draggod coloured material, whose folds fell gracefully to my faith in you--God knows how great-into the ground as she lay upon the couch. She tho mire of your infamous lifo. And worse than was resting before dressing for dinner, and the that--I could almost have forgiven that, I am masses of her blue-black hair wero loosely coiled so base--you have destroyed yourselfupon her head and held together by a great Corona uttored a wild cry and sank back Spanish comb thrust among the tresses with upon the cushions, pressing her hands ovor her a careless grace. She held a book in her slender, ears so that she might not hoar the fearful olive-tintod hand, but she was not reading; her words. head lay back upon the cushions and the fire. “ I will not listen !” she gasped. light threw her features into strong relief, while mail-mad !” Then springing up once more she her velvet eyes reflected the flashes of the again clasped him to her breast, so suddenly dancing flamos as she watched them. Her that he could not escape her. Oh, my poor expression was serene and calm. She had Giovanni!” shio moaned. “What has happened fogotten for the monient the little anuoyances to you? Havo you been hurt? of the last few days and was thinking of her dying? For Heaven's sako speak liko yourself!" happiness, contrasting the peace of her present He seized her wrists and held her before him life with what she had suffered during the five so that she was forced to hear what he said." years of her marriage with poor old Astrardente. Even then his grasp did not hurt her. Ifis Could Giovanni have seen her thus his heart hands woro like manacles of steel in which hers might have been softened. He would have could turu, though she could not withdraw asked himself how it was possible that any them. woman guilty of such enormous misdeeds could I am lurt to death,” he said, between his lie there watching the fire with a look of such teeth. "I have been to Gouache's rooms and calm innocence upon her face. have brought away your letter--and your pin- But Giovanni did not seu her as she was. the pin I gave you, Corona. Do you under- Even in the extremity of his anger and suffering stand now, or must I say more?" his courtesy did not forsake him, and he knockeri “My letter?" cried Corona in the utmost at his wife's door before entering the room. bewilderment. Corona moved from her position and turned her “Yes," ho answered, releasing her and head to see who was about to enter. instantly proclucing the note and the gold “Come in," she said. ornament. “Is that your paper? Is this your She started when she saw Giovanni's face. I piu? Answer mour no! they answer for Dazzled as she was by the fire, he looked to her Theniselves. You need say nothing, for you like a dead man. She laid one hand upon the can have nothing to say. They are yours and arm of the couch as though she would rise you know it. If they are not enough thero is to meet him. IIe shut the door behind him and the woman who let you in, who saw you bring advanced towards her till only a couple of paces them. What more do you want? separated them. She was so much amazed by As long as Giovanni's accusations had been his looks that she sat quito still while he fixed vague and general, Corona had remained his eyes upon her and began to speak. horrorstruck, believing that some awful and "You have wrecked my life," ho said in incomprehensiblo calamity had befallon her husa strange, luw voice. “I have come to tell band and had destroyed his reason. The moment you my decision." he produced the proof of whật ho said, her She thought he was raving mad, and, brave presence of mind returned, and she saw at as she was, she shrank back a little upon lier à glance the true horror of the situation. Shọ heat and turned pale. never doubted for a moment that she was the "You need not be afraid of me,” he continued, victim of some atrocious plot, but having some. as he noticed the movement. *I am not going thing to face which she could understand her to kill you. I am sorry to say I am fool enough great natural courago asserted itself. She was to love you still." not a woman to moan and wocp holplessly when *Girvanni !" cried Corona in an agonised there was an open danger to be met. tone. She could find no words, but sprang to She took tho letter and the pin and examined her feet and threw her arms about him, gazing them by the light, with a calmness that imploriogly into his face. His features did not contracted oddly with her previous conduct. relax, for lic was prepared for any sort of acting Giovanni watched her. He supposed that she on her part. Without hyrting her, but with had acted surprise until he had brought a strength few men could have resislol, he forward something more conclusive than words, forced her back to her seat, and then retreated and that she was now exercising her ingenuity a step before he spoke again. Sho submitted in order to explain the situation. His lip curled :

х SANT' ILARIO 65 emer 68 "No. rooms. scorufully, as he fancied he saw tho meaning of reached the Palazzo Montevarchi alone with her actions. After a few seconds shio looked up Faustina. But I have not done. He came here and held out the two objects towards him. the next day. You treated him with unex- Thie paper is mine,"sho said, "but I did not ampled rudeness before me. Half an hour later write the letter, Tho pin is mine, too. I lost I found you together in the drawing-room. He it moro than a month ago." was kissing yonr hand again. You were saying “Of course," replied Giovanni, coldly. you forgavo him and giving him that favourite “I expected that you would say that. It is benediction of your's, which you once bestowed very natural. But I do not ask you for any upon me under very similar circumstancos. explanations. I have them alreaily. I will Astrardento was alive and present at that danco take you to Saracinesca`to-morrow morning and in Casa Frangipini. You have mo for i husband you will have timo to explain everything. You now and you Jave found another man whose will have your wholo life to use, until you dio, heart will beat when you bloss him. It would for no other object. I told you I would not kill be almost better to kill you after all.” yon. Have you finished ?" asked Corona, white “Is it possible that you are in carnest ?” with anger. asked Corona, her voice trembling slightly. “ Yes. That letter and that pin---left while "I am in earnest. Do you think I am a man 1, poor fool, was waiting for you this afternoon to jest over such deecis ?" on the l'incio---those things are my last words. * And do you think I am a woman to clo such They close the tale very appropriately. I wish sleeis?" I did not love you so--- -- I would not wait for your "Since you have done then--what answer inswer. can there be ? Not only are you capablo of “Do you dare to say you love me?' them. You are the woman who has clone them. “ Yes-though there is no other man alive Do lifeless things, like thesc, lie ?" who would daro so much, who would daru to But men do. I believe you, Giovami. love such a woman as you are--for very shame." You found these things in Monsieur Gouache's “And I tell you," answered Corona in ringing You were told I put them there. tones, "that, although I can prove to you that Whoever told you so uttered the most infamous every word you say against mo is an abominablo falsehood that ever was spoken on carth. The caluiny, so that you shall see how basely you person who placed them where they were did so have insulted an innocent woman, yet I shall in the hope of ruining me. Can you look back never love you again--never, never. A man into the past and tell me that you have any who can believo such things, who can speak other reason for belioving in this foul plot ?". such things, is worthy of no woman's love, and “ Reasons ?” cried Giovanni, fiercely. “Du shall not have mine. And yet you shall hear you want moro We have time. me tell the truth, that you may know what you Î will give you enough to satisfy you that have done. You say I have wrocked your life I know all you have dono. Was not this man and clestroyed your happiness. You have done it for ever near you last year, wherever you met, for yourself. As thero is a Gol in Heaven-- talking with you in low tonos, showing by every "Do not blaspheme," said Giovanni, contempmnovenient and gesture that he distinguished tuously. “I will hear your story." you with his baso love? Were you not together “Before God, this thing is a lie !” criod in a corner last Tuesday night just as the Corona, standing at her full height, her oyos insurrection broke out? Did he not kiss your flashing with just indignation. Then lowering und when you both thought no was her voice, she continued speaking rapidly but looking ?” distinctly. “Gouache loves Faustina, and she “He kissed my hand before everyono," replied loves him. When he left this house that night Corona, whoso wrath was slowly gathering as she followed him out into the street. She sho saw her husband's determination to provo reached the Serristori barracks and was stunned her guilty. by the explosion. Gouacho found her there “There were people in the room," continued many hours later. When you saw us together Giovanni in a tone of concentrated anger, "but a little earlier ho was telling me he loved her. you thought no one was watching you-I could He is a man of honour. He saw that the only see it in your mariner and in your eyes. That way to save her good name was to bring her samo night I came home at one o'clock and you here and let me take her homo. He sent me a were out. You had gone out alono with that word by the porter, while she waited in the man, expecting that I would not return so soon shadow. I ran down and found her thore. --though it was late enough, too. You were We purposely prevented the porter from scoing forced to admit that you were with him, because her. I took her to her father's house, and the porter had seen you and had told me the sent Gouache away, for I was angry with man was a Zouave.” him. I believed he had led an innocent girl "I will tell you the story, since you no longer into following him that it was a prearranged trust me;" said Corona, proudly. meeting, and that she had gone not realising "I have no doubt you will tell me some very that there was a revolution. I ifvented the ingenious tale which will explain why, although story of her having lost herself hero, in order you left my house alone, with Gouache, you! to shield her. The noxt day Gouache came. reasons ? One + 66 SANT" ILARIO CHA I would not speak to him and went to my should produce no effect at all, And yet she room. The servants told me he was gone, knew his look and his ways, and recognised in but as I was coming back to you I met the tone of his voice the expression of a deterhim. He stopped me and made me believe mination which it would be hard indeed to what is quite true, for Faustina has acknow. change. He still believed her guilty, and ho ledged it She followed him of her own was going to take her away to the dismal acoord, and he had no idea that she was not loneliness of the mountains for an indefinite safe at home. I forgave him. He said he was time, perhaps for over. She had not a relation going to the frontier and asked me to give him in the world to whom she could appeal. Her a blessing. It was a foolish idea, perhaps, but mother bad died in her infancy; her father, for I did as he wished. If you had come forward whom she sacrificed herself in marrying the rich like a man instead of listening we would have old Duke of Astrardente, was dead long ago. told you all. But you suspected me even thon. She conld turn to no one, unless it were I do not know who told you that I had been to to Prince Saracinesca himself--and Giovanni his lodging to-day. Tho carriage was stopped warned her not to go to his father. She stood by a crowd in the Tritone, and I reached the for some nioments looking fixedly at him as Pincio after you had gone. As for the pin, though trying to read his thoughts, and he I lost it a inonth ago. Gouache may have found returned her gaze with unflinching sternness. it, or it may have been picked up and sold, and The position was desperate. In a few hours she he may have chanced to buy it. I never wrote would be where there would be no possibility of the letter. The paper was either taken from defence or argument, and she knew the man's this house or was got from the stationer who character well enough to be sure that where stamps it for us. Faustina may have taken it- proof faileri entreaty would be worse than she may have been here when I was out-it is useless. At last she came near to him and not her bandwriting. I believe it is an abomin- almost gently laid her hand upon his arn. able plot. But it is as transparent as water. “Giovanni," she said, quietly, “I have loved Tako the pin and wear it. See Gouache when you very tenclerly and very truly. I swear to you have it. Ho will ask you where you got it, yon upon our child that I am wholly innocent. for he has not the slightest idea that it is mine. Will you not believe me?". Aro you satisfied ? I have told you all. Do “No," he answered, and the littlo word fell you see what you have done, in suspecting me, from his lips like the blow of a stool hammer. in accusing me, in treating me like the last of His eyes did not flinch ; his features did not women? I have done. What have you to change. Will you not ask someone who knows "That you have told a very improbable whether I have not spoken the truth! Will story," replied Giovanni. "You have sunk you not let me writo -or write yourself to those lower than before, for you have cast a slur upon two, and ask them to come here and tell you an innocent girl in order to shield yourself. their story? It is much to ask of them, but it I would not have believed you capable of that. is life or death to me, and they will not rofuse. You can no more prove your innocence than you Will you not do it?" can prove that this poor child was mad enough 'No, I will not. to follow Gouache into the street last Tuesday " Then do what you will with me, and may night. I have listened to you patiently. I have God forgive you, for I cannot." but one thing more to do and then there will be Corona turned from him and crossed tho nothing left for me but patience. You will room. There was a cushioned stool there, over gend for your servants, and order your effects to which hung a beautiful crucifix. Corona knelt be packed for the journey to Saracinesca. If it down, as though not heeding her husband's suits your convenience we will start at eleven presence, and buried her face in her hands. o'clock, as I shall be occupied until then. Giovanni stood motionless in the middle of I advise you not to see my father.” the room. His eyes had followed his wife's Corona stood quite still while he spoke. She movements, and he watched her in silence for could not realise that he paid no attention a short time. Convinced as he was of her guilt, whatever to her story, save to despise her the he believed she was acting a part, and that her. more for having implicated Faustina. It was kneeling down was merely intended to produce inconceivable to her that all the circumstances a theatrical effect. The accent of truth in her should not now be as clear to him as they were words made no impression whatever upon him, to herself. From the state of absolute innocence and her actions seemed to him too graceful to she could not transfer herself in a moment to the be natural, too dignified for a woman who was comprehension of all he had suffered, all he had not trying all the time to make the best of her thought, and all he had recalled before accusing appearance. The story she had told coincided her. Even had that been possible, her story too precisely, if possible, with the doings of seemed to her to give a perfectly satisfactory which he had accused her, while it failed in his explanation of all his suspicions. She was judgment to explain the motives of what she woanded, indeed, so deeply that she knew she had done. He said to himself that he, in her could never recover herself entirely, but it did place, would have told everything on that first not strike hor as possible that all she had said occasion when she had come home and had Bay ?" 66 > SANT' ILARIO € 677 found him waiting for her. He forgot, or did serious eyes, he wavered. He loved her still not realisë, that sho had been taken unawares, and would have sloved her, had the proofs when she expected to find time to consider her against her been tenfold more convincing than course, and had been forced to mako up her they woro. With him his love was a passion mind suddenly.* Almost any other woman would apart and by itself. It had been strengthened have told the whole adventure at once; any and made beautiful by the devotion and tenderwoman less wholly innocent of harm would have ness and faith which had grown up with it, and seen the risk she incurred by asking her had surrounded it as with a wall." But though husband's indulgence for her silence. Ho was all these things were swept away, the passion persuaded that she had played upon his con- itself remained, fierce, indomitable and soul. fidenco iu her, and had reckoned upon his belief stirring in its power. It stood alone, like in her sincerity, in order to be bold with half the tho impregnable keep of a war-wurn fortress, truth. Suspicion and jealousy had made him beneath whose shadow the outworks and run. so ingenious that he inputed to her a tortuous parts have been razed to the ground, and whose policy of deception, of which she was altogether own lofty walls aro battered and dinted by incapable. engines of war, shorn of all beauty and of all its Corona did not kneel long. She had no in- stutely surroundings, but stern and unshaken tontion of making uso of tho appearance of yet, grim, massive and solitary. prayer in order to affect Giovanni's decision, For an instant Giovanni wavered, unable to nor in order to induce him to leave her alone. struggle against that mysterious power which He would, indeed, have quitted the room had still governed him and forces him to ackshe remained upon her knees a few moments lowledge its influence. The effort of resisting longer, but when she rose and faced him once the temptation to be abominably cruel carried Dore he was still standing as she had left him, him back from his main purpose, and produced his eyes fixed upon her, and his arms folded a sudden revulsion of feeling wholly incompreupon his breast. Ho thonght she was going to hensible to himself. renow her defenco, but he was mistaken. She “Corona !” he cried, in a voico breaking with came and stood before him, so that a little omotion: He threw out his arms wildly and distance separated him from her, and she spoke sprang towards her. She thrust him back with calmly, in her deor, musical voice. a strength of which he would not have believed "You have made up your mind, then. Is her capable. Bitter words rose to her lips, but that your last word ?” she forced them back and was silent, though her " It is." eyes blazed with an anger she had never felt " Then I will say what I have to say. It before. For some time neither spoke. Corona shall not be much, but we shall not often talk stoud erect and watchful, one hand resting upon together in future. You will remember some the back of a chair. Giovanni walked to the day what I tell you. I am an innocent and end of the room, and then came back and looked defenceluss woman. I have no relation to whom stealily into her face. Several seconds elapsed I can appeal. You have forbidden mo to write before he could speak, and his face was very to those who could prove me guiltless. For the white. sako of our child for the sake of the love " You may keep the child," he said at last, I have borne you...I will make no attempt at in an unsteady tone. Then without another resistance. The world shall not know that you word he left the room and softly closed the have even doubted me, tho mother of your son, door behind him. the woman who has loved you. The time will When Corona was alone she renained standing conie when you will ask my forgiveness for your as he had last seen her, her gaze fixed on the deeds. I tell you frankly that I shall never be heavy curtains through which he had dis. capable of forgiving you, nor of speaking a kind appoared. Gradually her faco grew rigid, and word to you again. This is neither a threat nor the expression vanished from her deep eyes, till a warning, though it may perhaps be the means they looked dull and glassy. She tottered, lost of sparing you some disappointment. I only her hold upon the chair and fell to the floor with ask two things of your courtesy—that you will an inarticulate groan. There she lay, white, 2.inform me of what you mean to do with our beautiful and motionless as a marblo statue, child, and that you will then be good enough to mercifully unconscious, for a space, of all she leave me alone for a little while. had to suffer. An evil thought crossed Giovanni's mind. He Giovanni went from his wife's presence to his knew how Corona would suffer if she were not father's study. The prince sat at his writing- "allowed either to see little Orsino or to know table, a heap of dusty parchments and papers what became of him while she was living her piled before him. Ho was untying the rotten solitary life of confinement in the mountains. strings with which they were fastened, peering The diabolical cruelty of the idoa fascinated through his glasses at the headings written hinn for a moment, and he looked coldly into across the various documents. He did not her eyes as though he did not mean to answer unfold them, but laid them carefully in order her. In spite of his new jealousy, however, upon the table. When San Giacinto had gone he was not capable of inflicting this last blow, away, the old gentleman had nothing to do Ag he looked at her beautiful white face and for an hour or moro before dinner. Ho had 68 SANT ILARIO accordingly opened a solid old closet in the Old Saracinesca suddenly turned opon his son. library which served as a sort of muniment His grey hair bristled on his head, and his black room for the family archives, and had with eyes flashed. With a quick movement he seizod drawn a certain box in which he knew that the Giovanni's arms, and held him before him as in deeds concerning the cession of title were to be a vice. found. He did not intend to look them over "Look lere!” he cried savigely. "I will this evening, but was merely arranging them not be made a fool of by a boy: Something has for exainination on the inorrow. He looked up happened which you are afraid to tell me. as Giovanni entored, and started from his chuir Answer me. I mean to kuow!" when he saw his son's fiuce. " You will not know from me," replica Sant' Cloud lle::lvens ! Giovannino! what has Ilario, keeping his teriaper, as lo generally did happenel? he crierl, in great inxiety, in the faco of it struggle. " You will know "I came to tell you that Corona and I are nothing, because there is nothing to know.", going to Saracinesca tomorrow," answered Sant' Saracinescit laughed. llarie, in a low voice. “ Then there can be no possiblo objectiou to “What? At this time of year? Besides, my seeing Corona,” he said, dropping lis hold you cannot get there. The road is full of Gari- and again going towards the door. Once moro haldians and solliers. It is not safe to leave the Giovanni stopped him. city! Are you ill? What is the niatter? “ You cannot see her now," he said in deter.. Oh --- nothing especial," replied Giovanni minced tones. with an attempt to issunio an indillerent tono. "Then tell me what ill this trouble is alout," “We think the mountain air will be good for retorted his father'. my wifo, that is all. [dlo uot think we shall But Giovini did not speak. Hal he been really have much difficulty in getting there. coulor lic would not have sought, the interview, Talf of this war is mere talk." -o soon, but he had forgotien that the old prince "And the other half consists largely of stray wonkl certainly want to know the reason of the bullets,” observer the princo, eyeing his soul sudden journey. suspiciously from under his shaygy brows. "Do you mean to tell me or not?" “ You will allow me to say, Giovanni, that for “The fact is," replied Giovanni desperately, thoughtless folly you have rarely hail your equal we lavo consulter the doctor-Corona is not in the world." really well--he alvises us to go to the moun:- “I believe you are riglit," returned the tainsyounger man bitterly. “Nevertheless, I mean Giovanni," broko in the old man roughly, to undertako this journey." you nover lied to me, but you are lying now. " And does Corona consent to it? Why are There has been trouble between you two, though you so palo? I believe you are ill !” I cannot imagine what has caused it." Yes she consents, We shall take the “Pray do not ask me, then. I am doing chill." what I think best---what you woull think best " Orsino ? You are certainly out of your if you know all. I came to tell you that we mind. It is ball enough to taku a lelicate were going, and I did not supuse you wonki have anything to sily. Since you do not liko “Corona is far from delicate. She is very tho idea---well, I am sorry--but I entreat you strong and able to bear anything.' not to ask questions. Let us go in peaco. "Don't interrupt me. I tell you she is a Saracinescit looked fixedly at his son for woman, and so of course she must be delicate. sone minutes. Then the anger faded from his Can you not understand common sense? As for face, and his expression grew very gravo. Ho the boy, he is my grandson, and if you are not loveel Giovanni exceedingly, and l loved old enough to know how to take care of him, Corona for his sako niore than for her own, I anı. He shall not go. I will not permit it. though lie umired her and delighted in her You are talking nonsenso. Go and dress for conversation. It was certair that if there were dinner, or send for the cluctor-in short, behave a quarrel between husband and wifes, and if like a human being! I will go and see Corona Giovanni had the smallest show of right on his myrelf." sile, the old man's sympathics would be with The old gentleman's hasty toniper was alrealy | hin, up, and he strodo to the door. Giovanni laiil Giovanni's sense of honour, on the other hand; his hand somewhat heavily upon his father's preventer bin from tolling his father what had happened. Ho did not chooso that even his “Excuse me," he said, “Corona cannot soo nearest relation should think of Corona as he you now, She is dressing." thought himself, and he would have taken any "I will talk to her through the door. I will step to conwal hier guilt. Unfortunately for wait in her boudoir till she can see me. his purpose, ho was a very truthful man, and "I do not think she will see you this evening. hal no oxperience of lying, so that his father She will, koce busy in getting ready for the detected him at once. Moreover, his pale face journey." and agitated manner told plainly enough that "She will dine with us, I suppose ? something very serious had occurred, and 80 I scarcely know---I am not surc. soon as the old prince had convinced himsolf of 22 WONILII arin, son, answer. X SANT' ILARIO 69 this his goodwill was enlisted on the side of his sinall worth which he had picked up in the strect and which consequently had no associat- " Giovannino," he said at last very gently, tions for him. He lacked the sonse of order in "I do not want to pry into your secrets nor to his belongings, and the pin had lain neglected ask you questions which you do not care to for weeks aniong a heap of useless little trifles, I do not believe you are capable of dingy cotillon favours that had been there since having committed any serious folly which your the previous year, stray copper coins, broken wife could really resent. If you should be poncils, uniform buttons and such trash, acunfaithful to her, I would disown you. If, on cuniulated during many months, and totally the other hand, sho has deceived you, I will do unheederl. llad he seen the pin anywhere elsio all in my power to help you." ho woulil have recognised it, but lie lied not Perhaps Giovanni's face betrayed something notico its absenco. The olil women, 'Caterina "of the truth at these words. He turned away Ranucci, huggel her monoy, an saill nothing and leaned against tho chimney-piece. about either of tho visitors who had entered “I cannot tell you I cannot tell you," he the room during the afternoon. The consequence repeated. "I think I am doing what is best. was that Gouache rose early on the following That is all I can say. You may know some morning and went towards the church with it day, though I trust not. Let us go away with light heart. He did not know certainly that out explanations." Faustina would come there, and inılced there My dear boy,” replied the old man, coming were many probabilities against her doing so); up to him and laying his hand on his shoulder, but in the hopefulness of a man thoroughly in you must do as you think best. Go to Sara- love, Gouache looked forward to seeing her withi cinesca if you will, and if you can. If not, go as much assurance as though the matter laul somewhere else. Take heart. Things are not been arranged and settled between them. always as black as they look. The parish church of Sant'Agostino is a Giovanni straightener himself as though by very large building. The masses succeed each an effort, and grasped his father's broad, brown other in rapid succession from seven o'clock hand. in the morning until nidday, and a great "Thank you," he said. "Good-bye. I will crowd of parishioners pass in anil out in an come down and see you in a few days. Coorl- alınost constant stream. It was thereforo bye!' Gouache's intention to arrive so carly as to be His voice trembled, and le hurriedly left the sure that Faustina has not yet conic, and lo The prince stood still a moment and trusted to luck to be there at the right time, for then threw himself into a deep chair, starin he was obliged to visit the temporary barrack of at the lamp and biting his grey moustache his corps before going to the church, and wils savagely, as though to hicle some almost uncon, also obliged to attend mass at a later hour with trollable emotion. There was a slight moisture his battalion. On presenting himself at quarters in his cyes as they looked steadily at the bright he learned, to his surprise, that Monte Rotondo lamp. haul not surromered yet, though news of the The pipers and parchments lay unheeded on catastropho was expected every monient. The the table, and he did not touch them again that Zouaves were ordered to remain under arms all night. He was thinking, not of his lonely old diy in case of emergency, anl it was only age nor of the dishwour brought upon his house, through the friendly assistanco of one of his but of the boy he had loved as his own soul for officers that Anastaso obtained leave to absent moro than thirty years, and of a swarthy little himself for a couple of hours. He hailed a cab child that lay asleep in a distant room, the and drove to wie church as fast as he could. warm blooil tinging its olive cheeks and its little In less than twenty minutes after he had clenched hands thrown back above its head. stationed himself at the entrance, Faustina For Corona he had no thought but latrel. inscended tho steps accompanied by a servant. 'He haul guessed Giovami's secret too well, and The latter was a mildio-aged woman with hard his heart was hardened against the woman who fontures, clad in black, and wearing a handhad brought shame and suffering upon his son. kerchief thrown loosely over her head after the manner of maills in those days. She evidently expreoted nothing, for she lookerl straight befoto her, peering into the church in order to see beforehand at which chapel there was likely to CHAPTER XI hoa mass immediately. Faustina was a lovely SAN GIACINTO lad signally failed in his attempt figure in the midst of the crowd of common to prevent the meeting between Gouache and people who thuonged the doorway, and whose Faustina Montevarchi, and had intentionally coarse, dark faces throw her ethercal features caused trouble of a much more serious mture into strong relief while she aclvanccd. Gouache in another quarter. The Zouave returned to his felt his heart beat hard, for he had not seen her lodging lato at night, and of course found vo for five days since they had parted on that noto upou his dressing-table. He did not miss memorable Tuesday night at the gate of her the pin, for he of course never wore it, and father's houso. Her eyes met lis in a long and attacheut no particular value to a thing of such loving look, and the colour l'ose faintly in her room. 1 1. » 770 SANT ? ILARIO delioate pale cheek. In the press she managed rested lovingly on his for an instant You to pass close to him, and for a moment he need not that," she added simply, for I love succeeded in olasping her small hand in his, her you, too." maid being on the other side. He was about to Nothing but the sanctity of the place preask a question when she whispered a few words vented Anastase from taking her in his arms and passed on. then and there. There was something 80 "Follow me through the crowd, I will manage exquisite in her simplicity and earnestness that it;" was what she said. he found himself speechless before her för Gouacho obeyed; and kept close behind her. la moment. It was something that intoxicated The church was very full, and there was his spirit more than his senses, for it was utterly difficulty in getting seats. now to him and appealed to his own loyal and I will wait here," said the young girl to her innocent nature as it could not have appealed servant. “ Get us chairs and find out where to a baser man. there is to be a mass. It is of no use for me to “Ah, Faustina !” he said at last, “God made go through the crowd if I may have to come you when he mado the violets, on a spring back again." morning in Paradise !" The hard-featured woman nodded and went Faustina blushed again, faintly as the sea at away. Several minutes must elapse before she dawn. returned, and Faustina, with Gouache behind "Must you go away?" she asked. her, moved across the stream of persons who “ You would not have me desert at such were going out through the door in the other a moment ?" aisle. In a momont they found themselves in “Would it be deserting---quito? Would it a comparatively quiet corner, separated from be dishonourable ?" the main body of the church by the moving “It would be cowardly. I should never dard people. Faustina fixed her eyes in the direction to look you in the face again.” whence her woman would probably return, ready “I suppose it would be wrong," she answered to enter the throng instantly, if necessary. Even with a bitter littlo sigh. where they now were, so many others were "I will come back very soon, dearest. The standing and kneeling that the presence of the time will be short." Zonave beside Faustina would crcato no surpriso. “So long--so long? How can you say it will "It is very wrong to meet you in church," be short ? If you do not come soon you will said the girl, a little shy, at first, with that find me dead - I cannot bear it many days more. timidity a woınan always feels on meeting a man “I will write to you." whom she has last seen on unexpectedly intimate “How can you writo? Your letters would terms. be seen. Oh, no! It is inipossible !!! “I could not go away without seeing you," "I will write to your friend-tothe Princess replied Gouache, his eyes intent on her face. Sant'Ilario. She will give you the letters. "And I knew you would understand my signs, She is safe, is she not ?" though no one clso would. You have made mo "Oh, how happy I shall be? It will be very happy, Faustina. It would have been almost liku secing you-no, not that! But so agony to march away without seeing your face much better than nothing. But you do not go again-you do not know what these days have at once ?" been without you! Do you realise that we used “It inay be to-cay, to-morrow, at any time. to meet almost every afternoon! Did they tell But you shall know of it. Ah, Faustina ! my you why I could not come? I told cveryono own one----- I mot; in hopes you might hear. Did you? Do "Hush! There is my maid. Quick, behind you understand? the pillar. I will meet her. Good-bye--good. Faustina nodded her graceful head, and bye-oh! not good-bye--some other word." glanced quicklyat his face. Then she looked “God keep you, my boloved, and make it not down, tapping the pavement gently with her good-bye'!'" parasol. The colour came and went in her With one furtive touch of the hand, one long cheeks. last look, thoy ecparated, Faustina to mingle Do you really love me?" she asked, in a low in the crowd, Gouache to follow at a long voice. distance until he saw her kneeling at her chair "I think, my darling, that no one ever loved before one of the side altars of the church. as I love. I would that I might be given time Then he stationed himself where he could see to tell you what my love is, and that you might her, and watched through the half hour during have patience to hear. What are words, unless which the low mass lasted. He did not know one can say all one would? What is it, if I tell when he should see her again, and indeed it was you that I love you with all my heart, and soul as likely as not that they should not meet, on and thoughts ? "Do not other men say as much this "side of eternity. Many a gallant young and forget that they have spoken? I woull fellow marched out in those days and was find a way of saying it that should make you picked off by a bullet from a red-shirted believe in epite of yourselfvolunteer. Gouache, indeed, did not believe In spite of myself !” interrupted Faustina, that his life was to be cut short so sudelenly, und with a bright smile while her brown eyes built castles in the air with that careless delight SANT! ILARIO in the future which a man feels who is not at all be plain, I desire to have an opportunity of afraid, " But such accidents happened often, killing you. Do you understand me now.? * and though he might be more lucky than * Perfectly," returned the soldier, raising his another, it was just as nossible that an ounce of brows, and then breaking into a laugh of genuine lead should put an end to his soldiering, his amusement. . "You are quite welcome to as painting and his courtship within another weok. many opportunities as you like, though I con: The mere thought was so horrible that his fess it would interest me to know the reason of bright nature refused to harbour it, and he i your good intentions towards me. gazed on Faustina Montevarchi as she knelt at If Gouache had behaved as Giovanni had her devotions, wondering, indeed, what strange expected he would, the latter would have chances, fate had in store for them both, but repeated his request that a pretext should be never once doubting that she should one day be found which should explain the wluel to the his. Ho waited until she passed him in the world. But there was such extraordinary assurcrowd, and gave him one more look before ance in the Zouave's manner that Sant' Ilario going away. Then, when he had seen her suddenly became oxasperated with him and lost disappear at the turning of the street, he sprang his temper, a misfortune which very rarely into his cab and was driven back to the happened to him. barracks where he must remain on duty all Monsieur Gouache," he said angrily, "I took day. the liberty of visiting your lodgings yesterday As he descended he was surprised to see Sant' afternoon, and I found this letter, fastened with Ilario standing upon the pavement, very pale, this pin upon your table. I presume you will and apparently in a bad humour, his overcoat not think any further explanation necessary.". buttoned to his throat, and his hands thrust Gouache stared at the objects which Sant' in the pockets. There was no one in the street, Ilario held out to him and drow back stiffly. It but the sentinel at the doorway, and Giovanni was his turn to be outraged at the insult. walked quickly up to Gouache as the latter "Sir," he said, "I understand that you acted fumbled for the change to pay, his driver. in the most impertinent manner in entering my Anastase smiled and made a short military room and taking what did not belong to you. salute. Sant'Ilario bowed stiffly and did not I understand nothing else. I found that pin on extend his hand, tho Ponte Sant'Angelo a month ago, and it was, " I tried to find you last night," he said collly. I believe, upon my tablo yesterday. As for the “You were out. Will you favour me with five letter I know nothing about it. Yos, if you minntes' conversation?" insist, I will read it." “Willingly,” answered the other, looking There was a pause during which Gouache ran instinctively at his watch, to be sure that he his eyes over the few lines written on the notehad time t.: Spure. paper, whilo Giovanni watched him very pale Sant Ilario walked a few yards up the street, and wrathful. before 'speaking, Gouacho, keeping close to his “The pin is my wife's, and the note is written side. Then both stopped, and Giovanni turned on her paper and addressed to you, though in sharply round and faced his enemy. a feigned hand. Do you deny that both came It is unnecessary to enter into any expla- from her, were brought by her in person, for nations, Monsieur Gouache," he said. * This is yourself ?” a matter which can only cnd in one way. “I deny it utterly and categorically,' I prosume you will see the propriety of inventing answered Gouache. Though I will assuredly a pretext which may explain our meeting before demand satisfaction of you for entering my the world." rooms without my permission, I give you my Gouache stared at Sant' Ilario in the utrnost word of honour that I could receive no such amazement. When they had last met they had letter from the princess, your wife. The thing parted on the most friendly terms. He did not is monstrously iniquitous, and you have been understand a word of what his companion was grossly deceived into injuring the good name of, saying. a woman as innocent as an angel. Since the pin * Excuse me, prince," he said at length. is the property of the princess, pray return it to "I have not the least idea what you mean. As her with my cornpliments, and say that I found far as I am concerned this meeting is quite it on the bridge of Sant'Angelo. I can accidental. I came here on duty. remember the very date. It was a quarter of Sant'Ilario was somewhat taken aback by an hour before I was run over by Prince the Zouave's polite astonishment. He seemed Montevarchi's carriage. It was therefore on the even more angry than surprised, however; and 23rd of September. As for the rest, do me the his black eyebrows bent together fiercely. favour to tell me where my friends can find "Let us waste no words," he said, imperiously. yours in an hour.” If I had found you last night, the affair might “At my house. But allow me to add that have been over by this time.” I do not believe a word of what you say. “What affair?" asked Gouache, moro and “Is it a Roman custom to insult a man whº has more mystified. agreed to fight with you ?" inquired Gouache. You are amazingly slow of comprehension, "We are more polite in France. We salute our Monsieur Gouache, ,* observed Giovanni. “To adversarios before beginning the 'combat 66 » "! + 72 SANT' ILARIO CH. Therewith the Zouave saluted Giovanni nover been known to kill a nian by accident, but courteously and turned on his hcel, leaviug the lind rarely failed to take his adversary's life latter iu an even worse humour than he had when he had deterinined to do so. Spicca had found him. Gouache was too much surprised at brought another friend«whom it is unnecessary the interview to reason connectedly about the to describe. The interview was short and causes which had led to it, and accepted the conclusive. duel with Sant'Ilario blindly, because he could The two officers had instructions to demand not avoid it, and because whatover offence he a serious duel, and. Spicca and his companion himself had unwittingly given ha haci in turn had been told to make the conditions even more been insulted by Giovanni in a way which loft dangerous if they could do so. On the other him no alternative but that of a resurt to arus. hand, the officers explained that as Rome was in His adversary had admitteil, has indeed boasted, a state of siege, aml Caribaldi almost at the of having entered Gouache's rooms, and of gates, the encounter could not take place until having taken thence the letter and the pin. the crisis was past. They undertouk to appear This alone constituted an injury for which for Couacho in case he chance to be shot in an reparation was necessary, but not content with engagement. Spicca, who did not know the with this, Sant'Ilario had given him the lie real cause of the duel, and was indeed soinewliat direct. Matters were so confused that it was surprised to learn that Giovanni hace quarrelled hard to tell which was the injured party; but with a Zouave, made no attempt to forco an imsince the prince had undoubtelly furnished mcdiate meeting, but beggel loave to retire and a pretext more than sufficient, the soldier had consult with his principal, an informality which seized the opportunity of proposing to send his was of course agreed to buy the otler silo. In friends to demand satisfaction. It was clear, five minutes he returned, stating that he accepted however, that the duel could not take place at the provisions proposed, and that he should once, since Gouache was under arms, and it was expect twenty-four hours' notico when Gouacho imperatively necessary that he should have should be reitly. The four gentlemen drew up permission to risk his life in a private quarrel at the necessary "protocol," and parted on friendly such a time. It was also certain that his terms after a few minutes' conversation, in superiors would not allow anything of the kind which various proposals were made in regard to at present, and Gouache for his part was glad of the ground. the fact. He preferred to he killerl before the Spicca aloue remaineil behind, and he immedi. enemy rather than in a duel for which there was ately went to Giovanni, carrying a copy of the 110 adequate explanation, except that a man who protocol, on which the ink was still wet. harl been outrageously deceived by a person or “llere it is,” he said sadly, as he entered the persons unknown haul chosen to aitack him for room, holding up the paper in his hand. a thing he had nerer done. He had not the revolutions are yery annoying! There is no end slightest intention of avoiding the encounter, to the inconvenience they cause. but he preferred to see some active service in “I suppose it could not be helped," answered a cause to which he was devoted before being Giovami, gloomily. run through the body by one who was his "No. I believe I have not the reputation of enemy only by wristake. Giovanni's reputation wasting time in these matters. You must try as a swordsman made it probablo that the issue and amuse yourself as best you can until tho would be unfavourable to Gouache, and the lay comes. It is a pity you have not sono latter, with the simple fearlessness that belonged other affair in the meanwhile, just to make the to his character, mcant if possible to have time pass pleasantly. It would keep your hand a chance of distingrishing himself before being in, too. But then you have the pleasures of killed. anticipation.' Half an hour later, a couple of officers of (iiovanni laughed hoarsely. Spicca took a Zouaves called upon Sant' Ilario, and found his foil from the wall and played with it, looking representatives waiting for them. Giovanni along the thin blare, then setting the point on the had had the good fortune to find Count Spicca carpet and bending the weapon to sco whether at home. That melancholy gentleman had it would spring back properly. Giovanni's eyes been his second in an affair with Ugo del Feriee followed his movenients, watching the slender nearly three years earlier and had subsequently steel,'and then glancing at Spicca's long arms, killed one of the latter's seconds in consequence his nervous fingers and peculiar grip. of his dishonourable behaviour in the field. He “How do you manage to kill your man whenhad been absent in consequence until a fow ever you choo80 ?” asked Sant'Ilario, half idly, weeks before the present time, when matters half in curiosity. had boen arranged, and he has found himself It is perfectly simple, at least with foils," frce to return unmolested. It had been remarked replied the other, making passes in the air. at the club that something would happen before " Now, if you will take a foil, I will promise to he had been in Rome many days. He was run you through any part of your body within a very tall and cadaverous man, çxceedingly three minutes. You may mako a chalked mark prone to takt offence, and excoolingly skilful in on the preciso spot. If I miss by a hair's-breath exacting the precise amount of blood which ho I will let you lunge at me without guarding. considered a fair return for an injury. He had “Thank you," said Giovanni ; “I do not caro "Thesc XI SANT' ILARIO 73 you." to be run through this morning, but I confess my process, one of which is my long reach. I would like to know how you do it. Could not Another is the knack of thrusting very quickly, you touch the spot without thrusting home ?" which is partly natural and partly the result of Certainly, if you do not mind a scratch on practice. My trick consists in the way I hold the shoulder or the artik" I will try and not my foil. Look bere. I do not grasp the hilt raw blood. Come on---0--in guard-wait a with all my fingers as you do. The whole art minute! Where will you be hit? That is of fencing lies in tho use of the thumb and fore. rather important." finger. I lay my forefinger straight in the Giovanni, who was in a desperate humour and direction of the blade. Of course I cannot do cared little what he did, rather relished the it with a basket or a bell hilt, but no one ever idea of a bout which savo'irod of reality. There objects to common foils. It is dangerous was a billiard-table in tho adjoining roon, and yes-I might hurt my finger, but, then, I am de fotched a piece of chalk at once. too quick. You ask the advantage?" It is vory "Here,” said lie, making a small white spot simplo. You and I and everyone are accustomed upon his coat on the outsido of his right from childhood to point with the forefinger shoulder. at things we seo. The accuracy with which we “Very well," observed Spicca. “Now, do point is much more surprising than you imagine.. not rush in or I may hurt We instinctively aim the forefinger at the "Am I to thrust, too?" asked Giovanni. object to a hair's-breadth of exactness. I only "If you like. You cannot touch mo if you do." make my point follow my forefinger. The in- “We shall see,"answerul Sant'Ilario, nettlel portant thing, thon, is to grasp the hilt very at Spicca's pour opinion of his skill. “In firmly, and yet leave the wrist linber. I shoot guardi !" in the same way with a revolver, and pull the Thoy fell into position and began play: trigger with my middle finger. I scarcely over Giovanni immediately tried his special method miss. You might anuso yourself by trying of disarming his adversary, which ho had scarcely those things while you aro waiting for Gouache. ever known to fail. Ho forgot, however, that They will mako the time pass pleasantly." Spicca had seen him practice this piece of Spicca, whose main ploasure in life was in the strategy with success upon Del Ferico. The use of weapons, could not conceive of any more melancholy duollist had spent weeks in studying thoroughly delightful occupation. the trick, and had completely mastered it. To “I will try it,” said Giovanni, rubbing his Gjovanni's surprise, the Count's hand turned shoulder a little, for the scratch irritated him. as easily as a ball in a socket, avoiding the “It is very interesting. I hope that fellow pressure, while his point scarcely deviated from will not go and have himself killed by the The straight line. Giovanni, angry at his failure, Garibaldians before I get a chance at himn." marle a quick feint and a thrust, lunging to his “You are absolutely determined to kill him, full reach. Spicca parried as easily and carelessly then ?". Spicca's voice, which had grown ani. as though tho prince had been a mere beginner, mated during his exposition of his method, now and allowed tho latter to recover himself before sank again to its habitually melancholy tone. ho replierl. A full two seconds after Sant'Ilario Giovanni only shruggerl his shoulders at the had resumed his guard, Spicca's foil ran over his question, as though any answer were needless. with a speed that defied parrying, and he felt a He hung the foil ho had used in its place on the short, shurp prick in his right shouliler. Spicca wall and began to sinoke. sprang back and lowered his weapon. “ You will not have another bout?" inquirer! "I think that is the spot," he said coolly, and the Count, putting away his weapon also and thicu came forward and examined Giovanni's taking his hat to go. coat. The point hnd penetrated the chalked 6. Thanks--not to-day. We shall meet soon, mark in tho centre, inflicting a wound not inoro I hope. I am very grateful for your goul than a quarter of an inch deep in the musclo of offices, Spicca. I would ask you to stay to the shoulder. breakfast, but I do not want my father to know "Observe," ho continuol, “that it was a simple of this affair. Ho would suspect something if tierce, without a foint or any trick whatever." he saw you here." On rcalising his absolute inferiority to such • Yos," returned the other quietly, “peoplo h master of the art, Giovanni broko into a lcarty generally do. I am rather like a public execulaugh at his own discomfiture. So long as he lioner in that respect. My visits often precede had supposed that some sort of oquality existed a catastrophe. What woulil you have? I am between them he had been angry at being a lonely man. outdone ; but when he saw with what ease You, who have so many friends !" exclained Spioca had accomplished his purpose, his admira- Giovanni. tion for the skill displayed marle hiin forget his "Bali! It is time to be ott," said Spicca, annoyance. and shaking his friend's hand liastily ho left the "flow in the world did you do it?" ho said. room. "I thought I could parry a simple tierce, even Giovanni stood for several minutes after ho though I might not bo a match för you !" had gone, wondering with a vague curiosity Many people havo thonght tho samo, my what this ninn's history had been, as many had friend. There are two or three elements in wondered before. There was a fatal savour - . came noar him. Ho was dreaded, as one of the meditato upon the situation, his savage humour 74 SANT ILARIO CH. : of death about Spicca'which everybody felt who that he was alone, with nothing to do but to Worst-tempered men and one of the most remark. forsook him and the magnitude of his misfortune able swordsmen in Europe. He was always oppressed him and nearly drove him mad. Ho consulted in affairs of honour, and his intimate wont over the whole chain of evidence again acquaintance with the code, his austere integrity, and again, and as often as "he reviewed what and his vast experience, made him invaluable in had occurred, his conviction grow deeper and such matters. But he was not known to have stronger, and he acknowledged that he had beenany intimate friends among men ur women. He deceived as man was never deceived before. He neither gambled nor mado love to other men's realised the boundless faith he had given to this wives, por did any of those things which too woman who had betre yed him; he recollected casily lead to encounters of arms; and yet, in the many proofs she had given him of her love; his cold and melancholy way he was constantly he drew upon the store of his past happinesa quarrelling and fighting and killing his man, till and tortured himself with visions of what could it was a wonder that the police would tolerate never be again; he called up in fancy Corona's him in any European capital. It was rumoured face when he had led her to the altar and the that he had a strange history, and that his life very look in her eyes was again upon hinn; he had been embittered in his early youth by some remembered that day more than two years ago tragic circumstance, but no one could say what when, upon the highest tower of Saracinesca, that occurrence had been nor where it had taken he had asked her to be his wife, and he knew place. He felt an odd sympathy for Giovanni, not whether he desired to burn the memory of and his reference to his loneliness in his parting that first embrace from his heart, or to dwell specch was unique, and set his friend to wonder- upon the sweet recollection of that moment and ing about him. suffer the wound of to-day to ranklo moro hotly Giovanni's mind was now as much at rest an by the horror of the comparison. When he was possible, under conditions which obliged thought of what sho had been, it scened him to postpone his vengeance for an indefinite impossible that she could have fallon; when ho period." He had passed a sleepless night after saw what she had become he could not believe his efforts to find Gouache, and had risen early that she had ever been innocent. A baser man in the morning to be sure of catching him. He than Giovanni would have suffered more in his had not seen his father since their interview of personal vanity, seeing that his idol had been the previous evening, and had hoped not to degraded for å nere soldier of fortune-or for see him again till the moment of leaving for a clover artist-whichever Gouache called him- Saracinesca. The old man had understood him, self, and such a husband would have forgiven and that was all that was necessary for the her more easily had she forsaken him for one present. He suspected that his father would of his own standing and rank. But Giovanni not seek an interview any more than he did was far above and beyond the thought of himself. But an obstacle had presented itself comparing his enemy with himself. in the way of his departure which he had wounded in what he had held most sacred, not expected, and which irritated him beyond which was his heart, and in what had grown Corona was ill. He did not know to be the mainspring of his existence, his trust whether her ailment were serious or not, but it in the woman he loved. Those who readily was evident that he could not force her to leave believe are little troubled if one of their many her bed and accompany him to tho country little faiths be shaken; but men who believe in so long as the doctor declared that she could a few things, with the whole strengtli of their not be moved. When Spicca was gone, he did being, are hurt mortally when that on which not know what to do with himself. He would they build their loyalty is shattered and overnot go and sec his wife, for any meeting must turned. be most unpleasant. He had nerved himself to Giovanni was 'a just man, and was rarely conduct her to the mountains, and had expected carried away by appearancoe ; least of all coul that the long drive would be passed in a dis- he have shown any such weakness when the agreeable silence. So long as Corona was well yielding to it involved the destruction of all and strong, he could have succeeded well enough that he cared for in life. But the evidence was in treating her as he believed that she deserved. overwhelming, and no man could be blamed for Now that she was ill, he felt how impossiblo it accepting it. There was no link wanting in the would be for him to take good care of her with chain, and tho denials made by Corona and out seeming to relent, even if he did not releut Anastase could not have influenced any man in in earnest; and on the other hand his really his senses. What coull a woman do but deny noble nature would have prevented him from all? What was there for Gouache but. to swear being harsh in his manner to her while she was that the accusation was untrue? Would noti suffering any other man or woman have done as much ? Until he had been convinced that a duel with There was no denying it. The only person who Gouacho was for the present impossible, his remained unquestioned was Faustina Monte. anger had supported him, and had made the varchi. Either she was the innocent girl she time pass quickly throughout the sleepless night appeared to be or not. If she were, how.could and through the events of the morning. Now Giovanni explain to her that she had been He was measure.

x1 SANTILARIO 75 ---- duped, and made an instrument in the bands of namely, that the papers really existed and Gonacho and Corona? She would not know were drawn up in a legal form. He had what he meant. Even if she admitted that she hoped to find a rambling agreement, made loved Gouache, was it not clear that he had out principally by the parties concerned, and deceived her too, for the sake of making an copied with some improvements by the family accomplice of one who was constantly with notary of the time, for he had made up his Corona ? Her love for the soldier could not mind that if any flaw could be discovered explain the things that had passed between in the deed, San Giacinto should become Prince Anastase and Giovanni's wife, which Giovanni Saracinesca, and should have possession of had been with his own cyos. It could not all the immense wealth that belonged to the account for the whisperings, the furtive meeting family. San Giacinto was the heir in the direct: and tender words of which he had been a witness line, and although his great-grandfather had in his own house. It could not do away with relinquished his birthright in the firm expectathe letter and the pin. But if Faustina were tion of having no children, the existence of his not innocent of assisting the two, she would descondants might greatly modify the provisions deny everything, even as they had done. of the agreement. As he thought of all these matters, and fol. Montevarchi's face fell when he had finishod. lowed the cruelly logical train of reasoning deciphering the principal document. The proforced upon him by the facts, a great darkness visions and conditions were short and concise, descended upon Giovanni's heart, and he knew and were contained upon one large sheet of that his happiness was gone from him for ever. parchment, signed, witnessed, and bearing the Henceforth nothing remained but to watch his official seal and signature which proved that it wife jealously, and snffor his ills with the best had been ratified. hoart he could. The very fact that he loved It was set forth therein that Don Leone Sarahor still, with a passion that defied all things, cinesca, being the eldest son of Don Giovanni added a terrible bitterness to what he had to Saracinesca, deceased, Prince of Saracinesca, bear, for it made him despise himself as none of Sant'Ilario and of Torleone, Duke of Barda, would have dared to despise him. and possessor of many other titles, Grandee of Spain of the first class, and Count of the Holy Roman Empire, did of his own free will, by his own motion and will, make over and convey to, and bestow upon, Don Orsino Saracinesca, his CHAPPER XII younger and only brother, the principalities of Saracinesca-here followed a complote list of As Giovanui sat in solitude in his roon, he was the various titles and estates--including the not award that his father had received a visit titles, revenues, seigneurial rights, appanages, fron no less a personage than Prince Monte- holdings, powers, and sovereignty attached to varchi. The latter found Saracinesca very much and belonging to each and everyone, to him, preoccupied, and in no wood for conversation, the aforesaid Don Orsino Saracinesca and to and consequently did not stay very long. When the heirs of his body in the male line direct for 'he went away, however, ho carriod under his ever. arm a bundle of deeds and documents which Hero there was a stop, and the manuscript he had long desired to see, and in the perụsal began again at the top of tho other side of the of which he promised himself to spend a very sheet. The next clause contained the solitary interesting day. Ho had come with the avowed provision to the effect that Don Leone reserved ohjeot of getting them, and he neither antici- to himself the estate and title of San Giacinto pated nor met with any diſliculty in obtaining in tho kingdom of Naples, which at his death, what he wanted. He spoke of his daughter's he haviug no children, should revert to the approaching marriage with San Giacinto, and aforesaid Don Orsino Saracinesca and his heirs for After expressing hir: satisfaction at the alliance ever. It was further stated that the agreement with the Saracinesca, remarked that his son-in- was wholly of a friendly character, and that Don law had told him the story of the ancient dcod, Leone bound himself to take no steps whatever and begged permission to see it for himself. to reinstate himself in the titles and possessions The request was naturnl, and Saracinesca was which, of his own free will, he relinquished, the not suspicious at any time ; at present, ho was said agreement being, in the opinion of both too much occupied with his own most unpleasant parties, for the aulvantage of the whole house of reflections to attach any importance to the Saracinesca. incident. Montevarchi thought there was “ He bound hinisolf, not his descendants," something wrong with his friend, but inasmuch remarked Montevarchi at last, as he again bent As he had received the papors, he asked no his head over the document and examined the questions, and presently departed with them, last clauso. “And he says 'having no children' hastening homewards in order to lose no time --in Latin the words may mean in case he had in satisfying his curiosity. none, being in the ablative absolute. Having no Two hours later he was still sitting in his children, to Orsino and his heirs for ever-but dismal study, with the manuscripts before him. since he had a son, the case is altered: Ay, but Ho had ascertained what he wanted to know that clause in the first part says to Orsino and 76 SANT IEARIO CII. his heirs for ever, and says nothing about Loono scratched the shabby green baize that covered baving no children. It is more absolute than tho table; as though heaping together little piles the ablative. That is bad." of monoy, and then leiding them under the palm For a long timo he pondered over the writing. of his hand. The remaining docnnients woro meroly transfers "Even if there is nothing copy,” he said again, of the individual estates, in each of which it was under his breath, “the little work will look as briefly stated that the property in question was prettily upon it as on this-if only*the shoots conveyed in accordance with the conditions of are the samo size and there is the same space,' the nain deed. There was no difficulty there. he added, his faco falling again at the disagron- The Saracinesca inheritance depended solely on able reflection that the duplicate might ditfer in the existence of this one piece of parchnient, some respect from the original, and of the copy or registration of it in the The pinn was simple onongh in appearance, government offices. Montovarchi glanced at and provided that the handwriting could be The candle that stoorl before him in a battered successfully forged, there was no rouson why brass candlestick, and his old heart beat a little it should not succeed. The man who could do faster than usual. To burn the sheet of parch, it, if he would, was in the house at that moment, ment, and then deny on oath that he had ever and Montevarchi know it. Arnoldo Meschini, scen it-it was very simple. Saracinesca woull the shrivelled little secretary and librarian, who find it hard to prove the existence of the thing. had a profound knowledge of the law and spont. Montevarchi liesitated, and then laughed at his days as well as most of his nights in poring himself for his folly. It would be necessary over crabbed manuscripts, was the very person first to ascertain what there was at the Chancery for such a piece of work. He understood office, otherwise he would be ruining himself the smallest variations in handwriting which for nothing. That was certainly the most im- belonged to different periods, and the minutost portant step at present. He pondered over the details of old-fashioned penmanship were as matter for some time and then roso from his familiar to him as the common alphabot. But clair, would he do it? Would ho undertake the As he stood before the table he glanced once responsibility of a forgery of which the success moro at the sheet. As though tho greater dis- would produce such tremendous responsibilities, tance made it more clear to his old sight, he of which the failure would involve such awful noticed that there was a blank space, capable of disgrace? Montevarchi had reasons of his own containing three lines of writing like what was for believing that Arnoldo Meschini would do above, while still leaving a reasonablo margin anything he was ordered to do, and would morethe bottom of the pago. As the second over keep the secret faithfully. . Indeed, as far aise was the shorter, the scribe had doubtless u.9 discretion was concerned, he would, in caso thought it better to begin afresh on the other of exposure, have to bear the penalty. Montesille. varchi would arrange that. If discovered it Montevarchi sat down again and took a large would be easy for him to protend that, being shcet of paper and a fan. He rapiilly copier unable to read the manuscript, he hall employed the first clausc to the end, but after the words his secretary to do so, and that the latter, in the " in the male line direct for ever" his pen still hope of rewarıl, liul gratuitously imposed upon The deed then read as follows : the prince and the courts of law before wliom In the male line direct for ever, pro. the case would be tried. vided that the aforesaid Don Leone Saracinesca One thing was necessary. San (iiaciņto must shall have uo son born to him in wedlock, never sce the documents until they were pro. in which case, and if such a son be born, cured as evidence, In the first placo it was this present deed is wholly null, void, an inportant that he, who was tho person nearest ineffcctual." concerned, should be in reality perfectly invocent, Montevarchi did not stop here. Je carefully and should be hinself as much deceived as any. copied the remainilor as it stood, to the last one. Nothing impressos judges like real and word. Then he put away tho original, and real malfertod innocence. Secondly, if ho wero. what he had written very slowly and carefully: consulted, it was impossible to say what viow With tho addition it was perfoetly clear that he might take of the matter. Montevarchi siis, San Giacinto, must be considered to be the posted him of possessing some of the hereditary lawful and only Prince Saracinesca. boldness of lle might refuso How well those few words would look at to be a party in a seception, even though he' the bottom of the page!" cxclai und the old himself was to be by it, a consideration man, half aloud. He sat still and glouted in which chilled the old man's blood and deters imagination over the immense wealth which mincd him at once to confido tho secret to no would thus be brought into his family. one but Arnoldo Moschini, who was complotely They shall be there--they must be there!” in his power. he muttered at last. “ Millions ! millions ! The carly history of this remarkable individual After all it is only common justice. The old was uncertain. He had received an excellent reprobato would never Have disinherited his son education, and it is no exaggeration to call him if he had expected to have one." learned, for he possessed a surprising knowledge His long, thin fingers crooked themselves and of ancient manuscripts and a great experience ran on.

XII SANT ILARIO tol. in everything connected with this branch of even moro industriously than before, uytil, archæology: It was generally believed that he' baving made up his mind, he began to attompt had beon bred to enter the church, but he tho reproduction of a certain valuablo writing himself pnever admitted that he had been any. :lating from the fourteenth century. He worked thing moro thana scholal in a religious seminary, in his own room during the evening and allowed Ho had subsequontly studied law, and hal no one to see what he was doing, for although it practised for some time, whicn he had suddenly was rarely that tho old prince honoured the abandoned his profession in order to accept the library with a visit, yet Meschini was inclined ill-paid post of librarian and secretary to the to run no risks, and proceeded in his task with father of the present Princo Montevarchi. the utmost secrovy. Probably his love of makiaval loru had got the Nothing could exceed the caro he slowed in botter of his desire for money, and during the the preparation and use of his materials. One of five and twenty years he had spent in the palace his few acquaintances was a starving, but clever he had never been hearel to complain of his con- chenist, who kept a dingy slop in the neighbourdition. Ho lived in a small chanıber in the hood of the Ponte Quattro Capi. To this poor attic and passed his days in tho library, winter man ho applied in order to obtain a knowledge and summor alike, perpetually poring over the of the ink used in the old writings. Je professed manuscripts and making endless extracts in his himself anxious to get all possible details on tho odd, old-fashioned handwriting. The result of subject for work he was preparing upon his labours was nover published, and at first mediaval caligraphy, and his friend soon set his sight it would have been hard to account for mind at rest by informning him that if the ink his enormous inclustry and for the evident contained any metallic parts he would easily satisfaction he derived from rk. The detect them, but that if it was composed of naturo of the man, however, was peculiar, and animal and vegetable matter it would be almost his occupation was undoubterlly congenial to impossible to give a satisfactory analysis. At him, and far more profitable than it appeared the end of a few days Meschini was in possession of a recipe for concocting what he wanted, and Arnoldo Moschini was a forger. He was one after numerous experiments, in the course of of that band of manufacturers of antiquities which he himself acquired great practical who have player such a part in the dealings of knowledge of the subject, he succeeded in proforeign collectors during the last century, and ducing an ink apparently in all respects similar whose occupation, though slow and laborious, to that used by the scribe whose work he occasionally produces immense profits. He had proposed to copy. Ile had meanwhile busied not given up his calling with the deliberate himself with the preparation of parchment, intention of resorting to this nethod of carning which is by no means an easy matter when it is il subsistence, but had drifter into his evil necessary to give it the colour and consistency practices by degrees. In the first instance he of very ancient skin. He learned that the hach quitted the bar in consequence of having ligneous acids contained in the smoke of xen connected with a scandalous case of extor- wood could be casily detected, and it was tion and blackmailing, in which he had been only through the assistance of the chemist suspected of constructing forged documents for that he finally hit upon the method of staining his client, though the crime has not been proven the sheets with a thin broth of untanner against him. His reputation, however, hail leather, of which tho analysis would givo been ruined, and he had been forced to seek his a result closely approaching that of the parchbread elsewhere. It chance that the former ment itself. Moreover, ho made all sorts of librarian of the Montevarchi died at that time trials of quill pons, until he had found a method and that the prince was in search of a learned of cutting which procluced the exact thickness 11 rearly to give his fo stipend of stroke regnired, and during the whole timo about equal to the wages of a foutman, he exerciseil himself in copying and recopying *Aleschini presentid hiniself and got the place, many pages of the manuscript upon common Tho.old prince Wils delighted with him and paper, in order to familiarise himself with the agreed to forget the aforesaid lisgrino ho had method of forming the letters, incurred, in consideration of his exceptional It was nearly two years before he felt hingeli qualities. Ho set himself systenfatically to ablo to begin his first imitation, but the time study the contents of the ancient library, with ind study ho ha expered were not lust, ami the intention of publishing the contents of the the result surpassel his expectations. So' more prerions manuscripts, and for two or three ingeniously perfect was the facsimile when years lie pursued his object with this laudable finished that Meschini himself woull have purpose, and with the full consent of his found it hard to swear to the identity of the employer. original if ho had not been allowed to see either One day a forcigu newspaper foll into his of the two for somo time. The minutest, hands containing an account of a recent sale in stains weru reproduced with scrupulous fitlelity. which sundry old martuscripts had brought large The slightest crasure was copied minutely. Ho prices. A new idea crossed his mind, and the oxamined every sheet to ascertain exactly how prospect of unexpected wealth unfolded itself to it had been worn by the fingers rubbing on the his imagination. For several months ho studied corners and spent days in turning a pago 78 SANTILARIO CHE . thousands of times, till the often-repeated a few hundred scudi, thought Montevarchi touch of his thumb bad deepened the colour to would have immense weight with such a man. the exact tint. In his eagerness to accomplish his purpose, the When the work was finished he hesitated. nobleman nover sus that the offer would It seemed to him very perfect, but he feared be refused by a fellow who had narrowly lest he should be deceiving himself from having escaped being convicted of forgery in his youth, seen the thing daily for so many months. Ho and whose poverty was a matter concerning took his copy one day to a famous collector, and which no doubt could exist. submitted it to him for examination, asking at Montevarchi scarcely hesitated before going the samo time what it was worth. The to the library. If ho paused at all, it was more pecialist, spent several hours in examining the to consider tho words lie intended to use than to writing, and pronounced it very valuable, weigh in his mind the propriety of using them. naming a large sum, while admitting that he Tho library was a vast old hall, surrounded on was unable to buy it himself. all sides, and nearly to the ceiling, with carved Arnoldo Meschini took his work home with bookoases of walnut blackened with age to the him, and spent a day in considering what he colour of old mahogany. There were a number shonld do. Then ho deliberately placed the of massive tables in the room, upon which the facsimile in his employer's library, and sold light fell agrecably from high clerestory windows the original to a learned man who was collecting at each end of the apartment. Meschini himself for a great public institution in a foreign was shuffling along in a pair of anciont leather country, His train of reasoning was simple, slippers with a large volume under his arm, clad for he said to himself that the forgery was less in very threadbaro black clothes and wearing likely to be detected in the shelves of the a dingy skullcap on his head. He was a man Montevarchi's palace than if put into the hands somewhat under the middle size, badiy of a body of famous scientists who naturally made, though possessing considerablo physical distrusted what was brought to them. Col. strength. His complexion was of a muddy lectors do not ask questions as to whence yellow, disagreeable to see, but his features a valuable thing has been taken; they only rendered him interesting if not sympathetic. examine whether it be genuine and worth tho The brow was heavy and the grey eyebrows money. irregular and bushy, but his grey eyes wero Em boldened by his success, the forger had singularly clear and bright, betraying a hidden continued to manufacture facsimiles and sell vitality which would not have been suspected originals for nearly twenty years, during which from the whole impression he made. Å high "he succeeded in producing nearly as many forehead, very prominent in the upper and copies, and realised a sum which to him middle part, contracted below, so that there appeared enormous and which wis certainly not was very little breadth at the temples, but to be despised by anyone. Some of the works considerable expanse above. The eyes wero he sold were published and annotated by great near together and separated by the knifeliko scholars, some were jealously guarded in the bridge of the nose, the latter descending in libraries of rich amateurs, who treasured them a fino curve of wonderfully delicate outline. with all the selfish vigilance of the bibliomaniac. The chin wag pointed, and the compressed In the meanwhile Meschini's learning and skill mouth showed little or nothing of the lips. On constantly increased, till he possessed an almost each side of his head the coarsely-shaped aud diabolical skill in the art of imitating ancient prominent cars contrasted disagreeably with tho writings, and a familiarity with the subject fino keenness of the face. He stooped a little which amazed the of learning who from the neck, and his shoulders sloped in occasionally obtained permission to enter the a way that made them look narrower than they library and study there. Upon these, loo, really werc. Meschini now and then experimenter with his As the prince closed the door behind him and forgeries, not one of which was ever detected. advanced, Meschini lifted his cap a little and Prince Montevarchi saw in his librarian only laid down the book he was carryiug, wondering a poor wretch whose passion for ancient litera- inwardly what had brought his employer to see ture seemed to dominate his life, and whose him at that hour of the moruing. untiring industry had made him master of the “Sit down," said Montevarchi, with more very secret necessary in the present instance, than usual affability, and setting the examplo He knew that such things as he contemplatel by soating himself upon one of the high-backat had been done before, and he supposed that chairs which were ranged along the tables. they had been done by just such men as Arnoldo "Sit down, Meschini, and let us have a little Meschini. He knew the history of the man's conversation." early disgrace and calculated wisely enough "Willingly, Signor Principe," returned the that the fear of losing his situation on the one librarian, obeying the command and placing hand, and the hope of a large reward on the himself opposito to the prince. other, would induce him to undertake the job. "I have been thinking about you this To all appearances he was as poor as when he morning," continued the latter. You have had entered the service of the prince's father been with us a very long time. Let me seo. five-and-twenty years earlier. The promiso of How many years! Eighteen? Twenty?" men I know your life.” << > XII SANT FLARIO 79 • Twenty-five years, Excellency. It is a long the family? To a man whose knowledge of the time, indood 1." matter on hand is only equalled by his fidelity "Twenty-five years! Dear me! "How the to those who have so long employed him?" thought takes me back to nay poor fathor ! “You are very good, Signor Principe. I will Heaven bless him, he was a good man. But, as do my best to serve you, as I have served you I was saying, Meschini, you have been with us and his departed Excellency, the Signor Principe, many years, and we have not done much for your father." уоп. No. Do not protest ! “Very well, Meschini. Now I need only modesty, but one must be just before all things. repeat that the reward for your services will bo I think you draw fifteou scudi a month? Yes. great, as I trust that hereafter your recompenso I have a good meinorys, you see. I occupy may be adequate for having had a share in so myself with the cares of my household. But good a deed. But, to be short, the best way to 'you are not so young as you were once, my acquaint you with the matter is to show you friend, and your faithful services deserve to be this document which I have brought for the rewarded. Shall we say thirty scudi a month purposo." in future? To continue all your life, even if Montevarchi produced tho famous dced and heaven avert it-you should ever become disabled carefully unfolded it upon the table. Then, after from superintending the library----yes, all your glancing over it once more, he handed it to the librarian. The latter bent his keen eyes upon Meschini bowed as he sat in acknowledgment the page and rapidly deciphered the contents. of so much generosity, and assumed a grateful Then he read it through a second time, and at expression suitable to the occasion. In reality, last laid it down upon the table, and looked up his salary was of very little importance to him, at tho prince with an air of inquiry. as compared with what he realised from his “You see, my dear Meschini," said Monteillicit traffic in manuscripts. But, like his varchi in suave tones, “this agreement was employer, he was avaricious, and the prospect made by Don Leone Saracinesca because he of ihrco hundred and sixty scudi a year was expected to have no children. Had he foreseen pleasant to contemplate. He bowod and smile. what was to happen --- for he has legitimate “I do not deserve so much liberality, Signor descendants alive, he would have added a clause Principo," he said. My poor services here, at the foot of the first page-do you see? Very far from poor, my dear friend, The clause he would have added would have very far from poor," interrupted Montevarchi. been very short-something like this, ' Provided “Moreover, if you will have confidence in me, that the aforesaid Don Leone Saracinesca shall you can do me å vory great servico indeed. But have no son born to him in wedlock, in which it is indeed a very private matter. You are case, and if such a son be born, this present deed a discreet man, however, and have few friends. is wholly null, void, and ineffectual.' Do you You are not given to talking idly of what follow me?" concerns no one but „yourself.” "Perfectly,” replied Meschini, with a strange “No, Excellency," replied Meschini, laughing look in his eyes. He again took the parchment inwardly as he thought of the deceptions he had and looked it over, mentally inserting the words been practising with success during a quarter of suggested by his employer. "If thoso words a century. were inserted, there could be no question about Wuli, well, this is a matter between our the view the tribunals would take. But there selves, and one which, as you will see, will bring must be a duplicate of tho dced at the Cancelits own reward. For although it might not pass leria." muster in a court of law - the courts, you "Perhaps. I leave that to your industry to kuow, Meschini, are very sensitive about little discover. Meanwhile, I am sure you agree with things" he looked keonly at his companion, me that a piece of horrible injustice has been whose cycs were cast down. caused by this document; il picco of injustice, Foolishly sensitive," echoed the librarian. I repeat, which it is our sacred duty to remedy “Yes. I may say that in the present instance, and set right." although the law might think differently of the "You propose to me to introduce this clause, matter, we shall be doing a good deed, redressing as I understand; in this document and in the a great injustice, restoring to the fatherless his original, ," said tho librarian, as though ho birthright, in a word fulfilling the will of wished to be quite certain of the nature of the Heaven, while perhaps paying littlo attention scheme. to the laws of man. Man, my friend, is often Montevarchi turned his eyes away and slowly very unjust in his wisdom.' scratched the table with his long nails. Very: I can only applaud your Lxcellency's “I mean to say," he answered in a lower sentiments, which do justice to a man of voice, " that if it could be made out in law that hopit." it was the intention of the person, of Don * No, no, I want no praise," replied the prince Leonein & tone of deprecation. “ What I need in "Let us speak plainly," intorrupted Moschini. order to accomplish this good action is your “We are alono. It is of no uso to mince matters asajstance and friendly help. To whom should here. The only way to accomplisli what you I turn, but to the old and confidential friend of desire is to forge the words in both parchments. . 0 46 80 SANT ILARIO CH. 66 < The thing can be done, and I can do it. It will while the caso is proceeding. We shall not be successful, without a shadow of a doubt. oven see the Signor Marchese's lawyers, for But I must have my price. There must be no what have we to do with it all? But the Signor misunderstanding. I do not think much of Marchese himself nuust really free from all your considerations of justice, but I will do blamo or he will show a weak point. Now, what you require, for money." whon all is ready, he should go to the Cancel- How much ?" asked Montevarchi in a thick leria and examine tho papers there for himself. voice. His heart misgave him, for ho had Ho hinsolf will suspect nothing. Ho will be placed himself in the man's powor, and Moschini's agreeably surprised. Authoritative tone showed that the latter know “And how long will it take you to do the it, and nioant to use his advantage. the work ?” askerl Montevarchi in hesitating "I will le moderate, for I am a poor man. tones. You shall give me twenty thousandi scudi in "Let mo seo," Meschini began to niake. cash on the day the verdict is given in favour r calculation under his breath, "Ink, two of Don Giovanni Saracinesca, Marchese di San days --- preparing parchment for experiments, Giacinto. That is your friend's name, I believe.' it week-Writing, twice over, two days -- giving Montevarchi started as the librarian namel age, drying and rubbing, thrce days, at least. the sum, and he turned very pale, passing his Two, nine, oloven, fourteen. A fortnight,” he bony hand upon the oilgo of the table. said aloud. "I cannot do it in less time than "I would not have expected this of you !” he that. If the copy in tho Chancery is by another exclaimei. haud it will take longer." You have your choice," returned the other, “But how can you work at the Chancery?" bringing his yollow face nearer to lis employer's asked the prince, as though a new objection had and speaking very clistinctly. “You know what presented itself. it all means. Saracinescii, Sant'Ilario, ancı “Have no fear, Excelloney. I will mannge it Barla to your son-in-law, besides all the rest, so that no one shall find it out. Two visits amounting, perhaps, to several millions. To will suffice. Shall I begin at once? Is it me, who get you all this, a paltry twenty agreed?" thousan. Orelse -” he paused and his bright Montevarchi was silent for several minutes, eyes seemed to penetrate into Niontevarchi's and his hands nioved measily. soul. The latter's face exhibiteri a sudden Begin at once," he said at last, as though terror, which Meschini understood. forcing himself to niako a determination. llo “ Or else?” said the prince. “Or else, 'rose to go aq he spoke, I suppose you will try and intimidate me by Twenty thousand scuoli on the day the threatening to expose what I havo told you?" verrlict is given in favour of the Signor Marchese. "Not at all, Excellency," replied the old is that it? scholar with sudden humility. If you do not That is it. I love it all to care for the bargain let us leave it alone. I am you. only your faithful serrant, Signor Principe. Do "I will serve yorir Excellency faithfully, not suspect me of such ingratitule! I only say never fear. that it we undertake it, the plan will be " Do, Veschini. Yos. Be faithful as you successful It is for you to decide. Millions laro always been. Remember, I am or no millions, it is the same to me. I am avaricions. It is in the cause of sound justico but a poor sturlent. But if I help to get them that I stoop to assume the appearance of this. -or for your son-in-law-I must have honesty. Cinn man do more? Cani one go what I asked. It is not one per cent.---scarcely farther than to lose one's self-esteem by appear. a broker's commission ! And you will have in to transgress the laws of honour in order to Ho much. Not but what your Excellency acomplish a good oljeot; for the sake of deserves it all, and is tho best judge. | restoring the birtluright to the fatherless and “One per cent. ?" muttered Montevarchi. 'the portion to the wirlow,nor imleel to the Perhaps not more than half per cent. But is widower, in this case? No, my clear friend.. it safe ? he asked suddenly, his fears all at the means are nioro than justitis:d by the once asserting theniselves with a force that righteousness of our purpose. Believo mo, my bewillered him. good Meechini-yes, you are good in the best, " Leave all that to me," answered Meschini sense of the worl--believo mic, the justice of confidently. “Tho insertion shall be made, this world is not always the same as the justire unknown to anyone, in this parchment and of Heaven. The lisixensations of Providenco in the one in the Chancery. The documents are mysterious." shall be returned to their places with no observa " And must remain so in this case," observed tion, and a month or two later the Marchese di the librarian with an evil smile San Giacinto can institute proceedings for the Yes, unfortunately, in this caso we rhall recovery of his birthright. I would only advise not reup the worldly praiso which so kind an you not to mention the matter to him. It is action inclouhterlly deserves. But: we'niust esgontial that he shoull be quite innocent in havo patience under these tejala, Good-bye, oreler thut the tribunal may suspect nothing. Meschini, gooil-bye, my friendly must busy You and 1, Signor l'rincipe, can stay at home myself with the airs of my houselioid. " Yos, yes. 3100 for you --- XIII. SANT' ILARIO 81 Every man must do his duty in this world, you her alone. When little Orsino was brought know.' in to them, the two men looked at each other, The scholar bowed his employer to the door, and while the younger bit his lip and suppressed and then went back to the parchment, which all outward signs of his agony, the tears more he studied attentively for more than an hour, than once stolo into the old princo's oyos so that keeping a huge folio volume open before him, he would turn away and leave the room. Then into which he might slip the precious dced in Giovanni would take the child upon his kneo and case he were interrupted in his occupation. look at it earnestly until the little thing was frightened and held out its arnis to its nurse, crying to be taken away. Thereupon Sant' Ilario's mood grew more bitter than before, for he was foolish enough to believe that the child CHAPTER XIII had a natural antipathy for hiny and would grow up to hate tho sight of its father. Those SANT' ILARIO could not realise that the course were miserable days, never to be forgotten, and of events had been brought to a stand still at the cach morning and evening brought worse news very moment when his passions were roused to of Corona's state, until it was clear, even to fury. He could not fight Gouacho for tho Giovanni, that she was dangerously ill. Tho present, and Corona was so ill that he could sound of voices grew rare in the Palazzo Saranot see her. Had he wished to vist her, the cinesca and the servants moved noiselessly about old-fashioned physician would prohably have for- at their work, oppressed by the sense of coming bidden him to do so, but in reality he was glad to disaster, and scarcely speaking to each other. he spared the emotions of a meeting which must San Giacinto canie daily to mako inquiries necessarily ve inconclusive. His first impuls and spent some time with the two unhappy men had been to take hor away from Rome and force without wholly understanding what was pass. her to live alone with him in tho mountains. ing. He was an astute man, but not possessed He felt that no othor course was open to him, of the delicacy of feeling whereby real sympathy for ho know that in spite of all that had hap- sometimes reaches the truth by its own intuitive penod he could not bear to live without her, reasoning. Moreover, he was wholly ignorant of and yet he felt that he could no longer suffer having played a very important part in bringing her to come and go in the midst of society, about the troubles which now beset Casa Sarawhore she must necessarily often meet the man, cinesca. No one but himself knew how he hard she had chosen to love. Nor could he keep her written the note that had caused such disastrous in Rome and at the same time isolate her as he results, and he had no intention of confiding his desired to do. If the world must talk, he exploit to anyone of his acquaintance. He had would rather not be where he could hear what of course not been able to ascertain whether the it said. The idea of a sudden journey, terni- desired effect had been produced, for ho did nating in tiie gloomy fortress of Saracinesca not know at what church the meeting between was pleasant to his humour. The old place was Faustina and Gouache was to take place, and ten times more grim and dismal in winter than he was too cunning to follow her as a spy when in suinner, and in his savage mood lie fancier. he had struck so bold a blow at her affection for himself alone with his wife in the silent halls the artist-soldier. His intellect was keen, but making her feel the enormity of what she had his experience had not been of a high order, and done, while jealously keeping her a prisoner at he naturally thought that she would reason as his mercy. he had reas himself, if she chanced to see But hor illness had put a stop to his plans for him while she was waiting for the man sho her safety, while the revolution had effectually loved. She knew that ho was to marry her intorfered with the execution of his vengeance sister, and that he might therefore be suppose! upon Gouache. He could find no occupation to disapprove of an affair which could only lead which might distract his mind from the thought: to a derogatory match for herself, and he haul that beset him, ard no outlet for the restles: therefore carefully abstained from following .temper that craved some sort of action, ne her on that Sunday morning when she had met matter what, as the expression of what he Anastaso. suffered. He and his father met in silence ali Nevertheless he could see that something had their meals, and though Giovanni felt that he occurred in his cousin's household which was had the old man's full sympathy, he could not beyond his comprehension, for Corona's illness 'bring himself to speak of what was nearest to was not alone enough to account for the manner his heart. Ho remembered that his marriage of the Saracinesca. It is a social rule in Italy laad been of his own sooking, and his pride kept that a person suffering from any calamity must him from all mention of the catastrophe by bo amused, and San Giacinto used what talents which his happiness had been destroyed, old he possessed in that direction, doirg all he could Saradinosca suffered in his own way almost as to make the time hang less heavily on Giovanni's much as his son, and it was fortunate that ho, hands. Ho malo a point of gathering all the was prevented from seeing Corona at that time, news of the little war in order to repeat it in for it is not probable that he would have con- minute detail to his cousins. He even prevailed trolled himself had "hey boon ablo to talk with upon Giovanni to walk with him sometimes in ,... 82 SANT' ILARIO: CH the wudle of the day, and Sant'Ilario seemed to That Giovanni had insulted him by entering take a languid interest in the barricades erected his lodgings unbidden, and by taking certain at the gates of the city, and in the arrangements objects away which were practically the artist's for naintaining quiet within the walls. Rome property was a minor consideration, since it presented a strange aspect in those days. All was clear that Giovanni had acted all along who were not Romans kept their national flags under an egregious misapprehencion. One thing permanently hung from their windows, as a sort alone puzzled Anastase, and that was the letter of protection in case the mob should rise, or in itself. It seemed to refer to his meeting with the event of the Garibaldians suddenly seizing the Faustina, but she had made no mention of it. capital. Patrols marched everywhere about the when he had seen her in the church. Gouache streets, and mounted gendarmes were stationed did not suspect Giovanni of having concocted at the corners of the principal squares and at the note for any purpoſes of his own, and quite intervals along the nain thoroughfares. Strange believed that he had found it as he had statod, but to say, the numerous flags and uniforms that the more the artist tried to explain the existence were to be seen produced an air of festivity of the letter, the further he found hiniself from strongly at variance with the actual state of any satisfactory solution of the question. He things, and belied by the anxious oxpressions interrogater his landlarly, but she would say visible in the faces of tho inhabitants. All nothing about it, for the temptation of Giovanni's these sights interested San Giacinto, whose money scaled her lips. active temperament made him very much alive The week passed somehow, unpleasantly to what went on around him, and even Giovanni cnough for most of tho persons conocrned in thought less of his great sorrow when he suffered this veracious history, but Suturılay night came himself to be led out of the house by luis cousin. at last, and brought with it a series of events When at last it was known that the French which modified the existing situation. Gouache troops were on their way from Civita Vecchia, was on duty at the barracks when orders were the city seemed to breathe more freely. General received to the effect that the whole available Kanzler, the commander-in-chief of the pontifical force in Ronie was to march soon after midnight. forces, had done all that was humanly possible to His face brightened when he heard the news, concentrato his little army, and the arrival of although he realised that in a few hours he was even a small body of Frenchmen made it certain to leave behind him all that he held most dear that Garibaldi could be inct with a fair chance and to face death in a manner now to him, and of success. Of all who rejoiced at the prospect by no means pleasant to most men. of a decisive action, there was no Between two and three o'clock on Sunday sincerely delighted than Anastase Gouache. morning Gouache found himself standing in the So long as the state of siege lasted anl he midst of a corps of fifteen hundred Zouaves, was obliged to follow the regular round of his in almost total darkness and under a cold, almost mechanical duty, he was unable to tako drizzling November rain. His teeth chattered any step in the direction whither all his hopes and his wet hands scemed to freeze to the tended, and he lived in a state of perpetual polished fittings of his rifle, and he had not the suspense. It was a small consolation that he slightest, doubt that everyone of his comrades found time to reflect upon the difficulties of his experienced the camo unenviable sensations. situation and to revolve in his mind the language from time to time the clear voice of an officer he should use when he went to ask the hand of was heard giving an order, and then the ranke Montevarchi's daughter. He was fully, so closed up nearer, or executed a sidelong move. termined to take this bold step, and though he ment by which greater space was afforded to tho. realised the many ohjections which the old other troops that constantly canio up towards prince would certainly raise against the match, the Portit l'id. There was little talking during he had not the slightest doubt of his power to an hour or more while the last preparations for overcome them all. Ho conle not imagine what the march were being made, though the men it would he like to fail, and he cherished and exchanged a few words from time to time in an reared what should have been but a slenler hope undertone. The splashing tramp of feet on the until it seemed to be a certainty. The un wot road was heard rapidly approaching every: expected quarrel thrust upon him by Sant'Ilario now and then, followed by a dead silenco when troublert him very little, for he was too hopeful tho officers' voices gavo the order to halt. Then by nature to expect any serious catastrophe, and a sbatlling sound followed as the ranks nioved he more than once langhod to himself when he into the exact places assigned to them. Here, thought Giovanni was really jealous of him. and there a huge torch was blazing and splut- The feeling of reverence and respectful almira-'toring in the fine raill, making the darkness tion which he had long entertained for Corona around it soeni only thicker by the contrast, was so far removed from love as to make but lighting up fragments of ancient masonry Giovanni's wrath appear ridiculous. He would and gleaming upon little pools of water in far sooner have expected a challenge from one the open spaces between the ranks. It was of Faustina's brothers than from Corona's hug- a dismal night, and it was fortunate that the band, but, since Bant' Ilario hac determined to men who were to march wore in good spirits quarrol, there was no help for it, and he inuat, and encouraged hy the arrival of the Fropoh; give him all satisfaction as soon as possible. who made the circuit of the city and were to ono niore 83 XIII: SANT, ILARIO join thoni upon the road in order to strike the Nomentano. There is perhaps no moro desolate, final blow against Garibaldi and his volunteers. and bleak part of the undulating waste of land The Zouaves were fifteen hundred, and there that surrounds the city on all sides. The way were about as many more of the native troops, is good as far as the turning, but after that it is making three thousand in all. The French were little better than a country lane, and in rainy two thousand. The Garibaldians were, according weather is heavy and sometimes almost into all accounts, not less than twelve thousand, passable. As the rider approaches Mentana the and were known to be securely entrenched al road sinks between low hills and woorled knolls Monte Rotondo und further protected by the that dominate it on both sides, atfording strong outpost of Mentana, which lies nearly on excellent positions from which an enemy might the diroct road from Rome to the former place. 'harass anil even destroy an advancing force. Considering the relative positions of the two Gradually the country becomos more broken armies, the odds were enormously in favour of until Mentana itself appears in view, a formid- Garibaldi, and had ho possessed å skill in able barrier rising upon the direct line to Monte generalship at all equal to his undoubted per- Rotondlo. On all sides are irregular hillocks, sonal courago, he should have been able to drive groups of trees growing upon little ulevations, the Pope's forces back to the very gates of solid stone walls surrounding scattered farm- Rome, He was, however, under a twofold dis- houses and cattle-yards, every one of which advantage which more than counterbalariced the could be made a strong defensive post. Mentana, numerical superiority of the boily he commanded: too, possesses an ancient castle of some strength, He possessed littlo or no military science, and and has walls of its own like most of the old his men were neither confident nor determined towns in the Campayna, insignificant, perhaps, His plan had been to create a revolution in if compared with modern fortifications, but well Rome, and to draw out the papal army at the able to resist for many hours the fire of light same time, in order that the latter might find tield-guns. itself between two fires. His men had expected It was jast midday when Gouache's column that the country would rise and welconie them first came in view of the enemy, and made as liberators, whereas they were received as out the bright red shirts of the Caribaldians, brigands and opposed with lesperate energy at which peeped out from among the trees and every point by the peasants then selves, a turn from behind the walls, and wero visible in some of affairs for which they were by no means pro- places massed in considerable numbers. The pared. Monte Rotondo, defended by only three intention of the commanding officers, which was hundred and fifty soldiers, resisted Caribaldi's carried out with amazing case, was to throw "attacking force of six thousand during twenty- the Zouaves and native troops in the face of the seven hours, a feat which must have been qnite enemy, while the French chasseurs, on foot and impracticable had the inhabitants themselves mounted, made a flanking movement and cut off not joined in the defonce. The revolution in Garibaldi's communication with lonte Rotondo, Rome was a total failure, the mass of the people attacking Mentana at the same time from the looking on with satisfaction while the troops opposite side. shot down the insurgents, and at times even Gouache experienced an odd sensation when demanding arms that they might join in sup- the first orders were given to fire. His expressing the disturbance. perience had hitherto been limited to a few The Rome of 1867 was not the Rome of 1870, skirmishes with the outlaws of the Samnite as will perhaps be understood heroafter. With hills, and the idea of standing up and deliberately the exception of a few turbulent spirits, the city taking aim at men who stood still to be shot at, coutained no rovolutionary element, and very so far as he could see, was not altogether few who sympathised with the ideas of Italian pleasant. He confessed to himself that though Unification. he wholly approved of tho cause for which he But without going any further into political was about to fire his musket, he felt not the Considerations for the present, let us follow slightest hatred for the Garibaldians, individu- • Anastase Gouache and his fifteen hundred com- ally or collectively. They were extremely rades who marched out of the Porta Pia before picturesque in the landscape, with their faming odlawn on the 3rd of November. The battle that shirts and theatrical hats. They looked very followed merits some attention as having been much as though they had come out of a scene in the turning point of a stirring time, and also as a comic opera, and it seemed a pity to destroy having produced certain important results in the anything that relieved the dismal greyness of life of the French artist, which again reacted in the Noromber day. As he stood there he felt some measure upon tho'family history of the much moro like the artist he was than like Saracinesca. A soldier, and he felt a ludicrously strong desire Monto Rotondo itself is sixteen miles from to step aside and seat himself upon a stone wall Rorre, but Mentana; which on that day was the in order to get a better view of the whole scene. outpost of the Garibaldians and became the Presently as he looked at a patch of red three scene of their defeat, is two miles nearer to or four hundred yards distant, the vivid colour the city. Most people who have ridden much in was obscured by a little row of puffs of smoke. the. Campagna know the road which branches A rattling report followed, which renuinded him to the left about #ro miles beyond the Ponte of the discharges of the tiny mortar's the Italian any effect. short rango. 84 SANT'. ICARIO CH. peasants love to fire at their village festivals. have the pleasure of your company at dinner Thon almost simultaneously he heard the curious to-night." swinging whistle of a dozen bullets flying over Thereupon the Zouave shouldered his rifle and his head. This latter sound roused him to an trotted off down the hill. The whole incident understanding of the situation, as he realised had not occupied more than three minutes and that any one of those small missiles might have his comrades were not far off, pursuing the ended its song by coming into contact with his Garibaldians in the direction of a large farmown body. The next time ho heard the order house, which afforded the prospect of shelter to fire le aimed as well as he coukl, and pulled and the means of defence. Ilalf a dozen killer the trigger with the best possible intention of and wounded remained upon the hill besides killing an enemy. Gouacho's prisoner. For tho most part, the Garibaldians retired The Vigna di Santucci, as the farmhouse was after each round, reappearing again to discharge called, was a strong building surrounded by their rifles from behind the shelter of walls and walls and fences. A large number of the enemy trees, while the Zouaves slowly advanced along had fallen back upon this point, and it now the road, and began to deploy to the right and became evident that they meant to mako left wherever the ground permitted such a move a determined resistance. As the Zouaves camo ment. The firing continued uninterruptedly up, led by Charette in person, the Reds opened for nearly half an hour, but though the rifles of a heavy' fire upon their advancing ranks. The the papai troops did good execu gon upon the shots rattled from the walls and windows in enemy, the bullets of the latter seldom produced rapid succession, and took deadly effect at the The Zouavcs blazed away in reply Suddenly the order was given to fix bayonets, with their chassepots, but the deep embrasures and immediately afterwards came the command and high parapets offered an excellent shelter, to charge. Gouache was all at onco aware that for the riflemen, and it was no easy matter to he was rushing uphill at the top of his speed find an aim. Tho colonel's magnificent figure towards a small grove of trees that crowned the and great fair beard were conspicuous as he ominence. Tho bright red shirts of the enemy moved about the ranks, encouraging the men and were visible before lim amongst the dry under searching for some means of scaling the high brush, and before he knew what he was about walls. Though anxious for the safety of his he saw that he had run a Garibaldian through troops, he seemed as much at home as though the calf of the leg. The man tumbled down, he were in a drawing-room, and paid no more and Gouache stoor) over him, looking at him in attention to the whistling bullets than if they some surprise. While he was staring at his' bad been mere favours showered upon him in ali fellow-fve the latter pulled out a pistol and fired afternoon's carnival. The firing grew hotter at him, but the weapon only snapped harmlessly. cvery moment and it was evident that unless As the thing wou't go off," said the man the place could be carried by assault at once, coolly, “perhaps you will be good enough to the Zouaves must suffer terriblo losses. The tako your bayonet out of my leg.' difficulty was to find a point where the attempt He spoke in Italian, with a foreign accent, might be made with a good chance of success. but in a tone of voice and with a manner which « It seems to me," said Gouache, to a big man proclaimed him a gentleman. There was a look who stood next to him, " that if we were in of half comic discomfiture in his face that Paris, and if that were a barricade instead of amused Gouache, who carefully extracted the an Italian farmhouse, wo should get over it.". steel from the wound, and offered tu help his “I think so, too,” replied his comrade, with prisoner to his feet. The latter, however, found a laugh. it hard to stand. "Let us try," suggested the artist quietly. “Circumstances point to the sitting posture,” “We may as well have made the attempt, he said, sinking down again. “I suppose I am instead of standing here to catch cold in this your prisoner. If you have anything to do, horrible mud. Come along,' lio added quickly! pray do not lot ine detain you. I cannot get" or we shall be too late. The colonel is going. away, and you will probably find mo here when to order the assault-o you sce?” you come back to dinner. I will occupy myself It was true. A loud voico gave a word of in cursing you while you are gone. command which was echocal and repeated by “You are very kind,” said Gouache, with a number of officers. The mon closed in and a laughi. "May I offer you a cigaretto and 'macle a rush for the farmhouso, trying to' a little brandy? acramble upon each other's shoulders to reach The stranger looked up in some astonish- the top of the wall and the windows of the low ment as he heard Gouache's voice, and took the first story. The attempt lasted several minutes, proffered task in silence, as well as a couple of during which the cnemies' rifles poured down cigaretter from the case. a murderous fire upon the struggling soldiers. * * Thank you," he said after a pause. “I will The latter full back at last, leaving one man not curse you quite as heartily as I meant to do. alone clinging to the top of the wall. You are very civil." “It is Gouache !" cried a hundred voices at' "Do not mention it," replied Gouache. "I once. He was a favourite with officers and mon wish you a very good morning, and I hope to and was recognised immediately.

XIII SANT; ILARIO 85 He was in imminent peril of his life. Standing calibre, and though their position was frequently upon the shoulders of the sturdy comrade to changed they made but little impression upon whom he had been speaking a few minutes the earthworks thrown up by the enemy. The before he had made a spring, and had succeoded Garibaldians massed themselves in large numbers in getting hold*of the topmost stones. Taking as they retreated from various points upon advantage of the slight foothold afforded by the Mentana, and though their weapons were crevices in the masonry, he drow himself up inferior to those of their opponents their with catlike agility till he was able to kneel numbers mado them still formidable. The upon the narrow summit. He had chosen a spot Zouaves, gendarmes, and legionaries, however, for his attempt where he had previously observed pressed steadily though slowly onward. The that no enemy appeared, rightly judging that only question was whether the daylight would thore must be some reason for this peculiarity, last long enough. Should the enemy have the of which he might be able to take advantage. advantage of the long night in which to bring up This proved to be the case, for he found himself reinforcements from Monte Rotondo and repair immcdiately over a horse poud, which was sunk the breaches in their defences the attack might between two banks of earth that followed the last through all the next day. wall on the inside up to the water, and upon The fortunes of the little battle were decided which the riflemen stood in safety behind the by the French chasseurs, who had gradually parapot. The men so stationed had discharged, worked out a flanking movement under cover of their pieces during the assault, and were busily the trees and the broken country. Just as employed in reloading when they noticed the 'Gouache felt that he could stand no longer, Zouave perched upon the top of the wall . One a loud shout upon the right announced the or two who had pistols firi i them at him, but charge of the allies, and a few minutes later the without effect. One or two threw stonos from day was practically won. The Zouaves rushed the interior of the vincyard. forward, cheered and encouraged by the prospect Gouache threw himself on his face along the of immediate success, but Anastase staggered wall and began quickly to throw down the from the ranks and sank down under a tree topmost stones. The mortar was scarcely more unable to go any farther. He had scarcely solid than dry mud, and in a few seconds he had settled himself in a comfortable position when made a perceptible inpression upon the masonry. he lost consciousness and fainted away. But the riflenien had ineanwhile finished reload. Montana was not taken, but it surrendered on ing and one of them, taking careful aim, fired the following morning, and as Monte Rotondo upon the Zouave. The bullet hit him in the had been evacuated during the night and most fleshy part of the shoulder, causing a stinging of the Caribaldians had escaped over the frontier, pain and, what was worse, a shock that nearly the fighting was at an end, and the campaign of sent him rolling over the edge. Still ho twonty-four hours terminated in a complete clung on desperately, loosening the stones with victory for the Roman forces. a strength one would not have expected in his When Gouache cane to himself his first A minute longer, during which sensation was that of a fiery stream of liquid half a dozen moro balls whizzed over him or gurgling in his mouth and running down Hattened themselves against the stones, and his throat. He swallowed the liquor half then bis comrades made another rush, con- unconsciously, and opening his eyes for contrating their force this time at the spot a moment was aware that two men where he had succeeded in lowering the barrier. standing beside him, one of them holding His left arm was almost powerless from the a lantern in his land, the rays from which flesh-wound in his shoulder, but with his right dazzled the wounded Zouave and prevented him he helped the first man to a footing beside him. from recognising the persons. In a moment more the Zouaves were swarming " Where is he hurt ?" asked a voice that over the wall and dropping down by scores into sounded strangely familiar in his ears. the shallow pool on the other side. I cannot tell yet," replied the other man, Tho fight was short but desperate. The kneeling down again beside him and examining enemy, driven to bay in the corners of the yard him attentively: n and within the farmhouse, defended themselves It is only my shoulder," gusped Gouache. manfully, many of them being killed and many “But I am very weak. Let mo sleep, please." more wounded. But the place was carried and Thereupon he fainted again, and was conscious the great majority fled precipitately through of nothing more for some time. tho oxits at the back and made the best of their The two men took him up and carried him to. way towards Mentana. a place near, where others were waiting for him. Ån hour later Gouache was still on his logs, The night was intensely dark, and no ono spoke but exhausted by his efforts in scaling the wall a word, as the little party picked its way over anü" by loss of blood from his wound, ho felt tho battlefield, occasionally stopping to avoid that he could not hold out much longer. treading upon one of the numerous prostrate The position at that time was precarious. It bodies that lay upon the ground. The man who was nearly four o'clock and the days were short. had examined Gouache generally stooped down The artillory was playing against the little town, and turned the light of his lantern upon the but tho gung were light fiold-pieces of small faces of the dead men, expecting that some one of sparo frame. were SANT ILARIO them night show signs of life. But it was very though he felt that he could not bear the strain late, and the wounded had already been carried much longer. away. Gouache alone seemed to bate escaped As the afternoon light faded from his chamber observation, an accident probably due to the he dropped the pencil and paper with which he fact that he had been able to drag himself to a had been working and leaned back in his chair. sheltered spot before losing his senses. His face was haggard and drawn, and sleepless During nearly an hour the mon trudged along nights had made dark circles about his deepthe road with their burden, when at last they set eyes, while his face, which was naturally saw in the distance the bright lamps of a car lean, had grown suddenly thin and hollow. riage shining through the darkness. The injured He was indeed one of the most unhappy men soldier was carefully placed among the cushions, in Rome that day, and so far as he could see, And the two gentlemen who had found him got his misery had fallen upon him through no fault in and closed the door. of his own. It would have been a blessed relief, Gouache awoke in consequence of the pain could he have accused hiniself of injustice, or of caused by the jolting of the vehicle. The lan. any misdeed which might throw the weight and tern was placed upon one of the vacant sents responsibility of Corona's actions back upon his . and illuminated the faces of his companions, one own soul. He loved her still so well that he could of whom sat behind him and supported his weight have imagined nothing sweeter than to throw by holding one arm around his body. Anastase himself at her feet and cry aloud that it was he stared at this man's face for some time in silence who haci sinned and not she. He tortured his aud in evident surprise. He thought he was in imagination for a means of proving that she a dream, and he spoke rather to assure himself' might be innocent. But it was in vain. The chain that he was awake than for any other reason. of circumstantial evidence was complete and "You were anxious lest I should.escape you, not a link was missing, not one point uncertain.. after all," he said. You need not be afraid. He would have given her the advantage of any I shall be able to keep my engagement. doubt which could be thought to oxist, but the " I trust you will do nothing of the kind, my longer he thought of it all, the more suro he dear Gouache," answered Giovanni Saracinesca. grew that there was no doubt whatever. He sat quite still until it was nearly dark, and then with a sudden and angry novenient quite unlike him, he sprang to his feet and left the rooni. Solitulle was growing uubearable to CHAPTER XIV him, and though he cared little to see any of his associates, the mere presence of other living On the Saturday afternoon preceding the battle beings would, he thought, be botter than of Mentana, Sant'Ilario was alone in his own nothing. Ile was about to go out of the house room, trying to pass the weary hours in the when he met the doctor coming from Corona's calculation of certain improvements he meditated apartments. at Saracinesca. He had grown very thin and "I do not wish to canse yon umecessary pain," careworn during the week, and he found it hard said the physician, " but I think it would be to distract his mind even for a moment from the better that you should see the princess. thoáght of his misfortunes. Nothing but a Has she asked for me?" inquired Giovanni, strong mental effort in another direction could gloomily. any longer fix his attention, and though any No. But I think you ought to see her." kind of work was for the present distasteful to "Is she dying?”. Sant'Ilario spoko under him, it was at least a temporary relief from the his breath and laid his hand on the doctor's arm. contemplation of bis nrisfortunes. Pray be calm, Signor Principe. I did not He could not bring himself to see Corona, say that. But I repeatthough she grew daily worse, and both the Be good enough to say, what you mean physicians and the attendants who were about without repetition," answered Giovanni almosta her looked grave. His action in this respect savagely. did not proceed from heartlessness, still less The physician's face flushed with annoyance, from any wish to add to her sufferings; on the but as Giovanni was such a very high and, contrary, he kuew very well that, since he could nighty personage he controlled his anger and not speak to her with words of forgiveness, the replied as calmly as he could. sight of him would very likely aggravate her "The princess is not dying. But she is very state. He had no reason to forgive her, for ill. She may be worse before morning. You nothing had happened to make her guilt seem had better see hor now, for she will know you... more pardonable than before, Had she been later she may not." well and strong as usual, he would have scen Without waiting for more Giovanni turned on her often, and would very likely have reproached his keel and strude towards his wife's, rdom. her again and again most bitterly with what she Passing through an outer chamber he saw one had done. But she was ill and wholly unable of her women sitting in a corner and shedding to defend herself; to inflict fresh pain at such a copious tears. Sho looked up and pointed to time-would have been mean and cowardly. He the door in a helpless fashion, In another kept away and did his best not to go mad, moment Giovanni was at Corona's bedside. > WAS 95 ; "XIV SANT' ILARIO 87 He would not have recognised hor. Her face seo that she was determined not to look at him, wasted and white, and looked ghastly by Only now and then a passionate sob shook her contrast with the masses of her black hair which and made her tremble, like a thing of little were spread over the broad pillow. Her weight shaken by the wind. colourless lips woro parted and a little drawn, Giovanni could bear it no longer. Once more and her breath came faintly. Only her eyes he kissed her heavy hair and then quickly went retained the expression of life, seeming largor out, he knew not whither. When he realised and more brilliant than he had ever seen them what he was doing, he found himself loaning before. against a damp wall in the street. Ho pulled Giovanni gazed on hor in horror for several himself together, and walked away at a brisk seconds. In his imagination he had supposed pace, trying to find some relief in rapid motion. that she would look as when he had seen her He never knew how far he walked that night, last, and the shock of seeing her as she was, haunted by the presence of Corona's deathly unstrung his nerves. For an instant he forgot face and by the sound of that despairing cry everything that was past in the one strong which he had no power to check. He went on passion that dominated him in spite of himself. and on, challenged from time to time by the His arms went round her, and amidst his sentinels, to whom he mechanically showed his blinding tears he showered hot kisses on her pass. Striding uphill and down through the denth-like fucs. With a supremo effort, for highways and through the least frequented she was so weak as to be almost powerless, she strects of the city, it was all the same to him in clasped her hands about his neck and pressed his misery, and he had no conscionsness of what her to him, or he pressed her. The embrace ho saw or heard. At eight o'clock in the lasted but a moment and her arms fell again evening he was opposite Saint Peter's; at midlike lead. night he was standing alone at the desolate “You know the truth at last, Giovanni, cross roads before Santa Croce in Gerusalemme, she said, feebly. “You know that I am beyond the Lateran, and only just within the innocent or you would notwalls. From place to place he wandered, He did not know whether her voice failed he feeling no fatigue, but only a burning fever in from weakness, or whether she was hesitating. his head and an icy chill in his heart. Some- He felt as though sho had driven a sharp times he would walk up and down some broad weapon into his breast by recalling all that square twenty or thirty times; then again bo separated them. He drew back a little, and followed a long thoroughfare throughout its his face darkened. whole length, and retraced his steps without Wha' could ho do? She was dying, and it seeing that he passed twice through the same would be diabolically cruel to undeceive her. street. In that moment he would have given his soul to At last lie found himself in a great crowd of be able to die, to put on again the expression people. Had he realised that it was nearly that was in his face when he had kissed her three o'clock in the morning, the presence of a moment before. But the suffering of which such a concourse would have astonished him. she reminded him was too great, the sin too But if he was not actually ill and out of his enormous, and though he trieci bravely he could mind, he was at all events in such a confused not succeed. But he made the effort. He state that he did not even ask hiniself what was tried to smile, and the attempt was horrible. the meaning of the demonstration. He spoke, but there was no life in his words. The tranıp of marching troops recalled the "YON, dear," he said, though the words thought of Gouacle, and suddenly he underchoked him like hot clust, “I know it was all a stood what was happeuing. The soldiers were mistako Hlow enn I ever ask your forgiveness?" leaving Rome to attack the Garibaldians, and Corona saw that it was not the truth, and he was near one of the gates. By the light of with a despairing cry sho turned away and hid faring torches, he recognised at some distance her face in the pillow. Giovanni felt an icy the hideous architecture of the Porta Pia. H1 chill of horror descending to his heart. A more caught sight of the Zouave uniform under the terrible moment could scarcely be imagined. glare and pressed forward instinctively, trying There ho stood beside his dying wife, the convic- to see the faces of the men. But the crowd was tion of her sin burnt in upon his heart, but loving closely packel, and he could not obtain a view, her fiercely still, willing in that supreme Crisis try as he might, and the darkness was so thick to mako her think she'was forgivon, striving to that the torches only made them wir darker around tell the kind lie that nevertheless would not be them. ,told, powerless to decgive her who had so He listened to the tramp of feet and the ring horribly betrayed him. of steel arms and accoutrements like a man in Once more he bent over her and laid his hand an evil dream. Instead of passing quickly, the onhers. The touch of her wasted fingers time now seemeri interminable, for he was brought the tears to his oyos again, but the, unable to move, and the feeling that among moment of passion was past. He bent down those thousands of moving soldiers there was, and would have comforted her had he known perhaps, that one nmn for whose blood he how, but not a word would forn itself upon his thirsterd, was intolerable. At last the tramping lips. Her faco was turul away, and he could died away in the distance, and the crowd 88 SANT' ILARIO CH. 56 loosened itself and began to break up. Giovanni before him, an open portfolio and writing was carried with the stream, and once more it materials, a bit of sealing-wax, a small dictionary, became inditferent to him whither he went. neatly laid in order upon the dark red cloth. All at once he was aware of a very tall man who He did not know why he had allowed himself walked beside him, a man so large that he looked to be led to the place, but lie felt a sense of rest up, sure that the giant could be none but his in sitting there quietly in silence. San Giacinto, cousin, San Giacinto. saw that there was something wrong and said Are you here, too!” asked the latter in a nothing, but lighted a black cigar and smoked friendly voice, as he recognised Giovanni by the thoughtfully. light of a lamp, under which they were passing. “ You look as though you had been up all "I came to see them off,” replied Sant'Ilario, night," he remarked, after a long pauro. coldly. It seemed to him as though his com Giovanni did not answer. His eyes did not panion must have followed him. look up from the 'red blotting-paper in the “So did I," said San Giacinto. "I heard the open portfolio before him. As he looked down news late last night, and only lay down for an San Giacinto almost believed he was asleep, and hour or two.' shook the table a little to seo whether his “What time is it?" asked Giovanni, who cousin would notice it. Instantly Giovanni laid supposed it was about midnight. his hand upon the writing-book to steady it Five o'clock. It will be daylight, or dawn before him. But still he did not look up. at least, in an hour." You seem to be interested,” said San Giovanni was silent, wondering absently where Giacinto, with a smile, anul ho blow'a cloud of he had been all night. For some time the two smoke into the air. walked on without speaking. Giovanni was indeer completely absorbed in “ You had better come and have coffee with his studies, and only nodded his head in answer. me," said San Giacinto, as they passed through After a few minutes moro ho rose and took the the Piazza Barbarini. “ I made my man get up portfolio to a dingy mirror that stood over so that I might have some as soon as I got the chimney-piece of the lodging, and held np home." the sheet of red blotting paper before the Giovanni assented. The presence of someone reflecting surface. Apparently not satisfied with whom he could speak made hin realise, with this, he brought the lamp and set it upon that he was almost exhausted for want of food. the shelf, and then repeated the process. It was morning, and he had caten nothing since You are an infernal scoundrel," he said in the preceding midday, and little enough then. a low voice, that treinbled with wrath, as he In a few minutes they reached San Giacinto's turned and faced San Giacinto. lodging. There was a lanıp burning brightly What do you mean?” intuired the latter on the table of the sitting room, and a littlo fire with a calmness that would have staggered was smouldering on the hearth. Giovanni sank a less into a chair, worn out with hunger and fatignc; Giovanni drew from his pocket-book the note while the servant brought the coffee and set it he had found in (iouache's room. For a weck on the table. he had kept it about him. Without paying “ You look tired," remarked San Giacinto. any further attention to San Cincinto, he held “One lump or two?" it in one hand and again place the blotting. Giovanni drank the beveraye without tasting paper in front of the mirror. The impression of it, but it revived him, and the warmth of the the writing corresponded exactly with the room comforted his chilled and tired limbs. He original. As it consisted of but a very few words did not notice that San Giacinto was lookin and had been written quickly, almost every hard at him, wondering, indeed, what could stroke had been reproduced upon the red paper have produces so strange an alteration in his in a reversed facsimile. Giovanni brought the appearance and manner. two and held them before San Giacinto's eyes. *How is the princess?" asked tho big man in The latter looked surprised but did not betray, a tone of sympathy, as he slowly stirred the the slightest fear. sugar in his coffee. "Do you mean to tell me that you did not *Thank you---she is very well," answered write this note?" asked Giovanni, savagely. Giovanni, mechanically. In his mind the secret “Of course I wroto it,” replied the other which he must conceal was so closely connected coolly. with Corona's illness that he alniost uncon Giovanni's teeth chattered with rågo. He sciously included her state among the things of dropped the portfolio and the letter and seized which he would not speak. But San (iacinto his cousin by the throat, burying his fingers in looked sharply at him, wondering what he the tough flesh with the ferocity of a will meant. animal. He was very strong and active and " Indeed? I thought she was very ill." had fallen upon his adversary unawares, so that "So she is," replied Sant'Ilario, bluntly, he had an additional advantago. But for all "I forgot- I do not know what I was thinking that he was no match for his cousin's giant of. I fcar she is in a very dangerous condition. strength. San Giacinto sprang to his feet and He was silent again, and sat leaning upon the his great hands took hold of Giovanni's arms table absently looking at the objects that lay above tho elbow, lifting him from the ground angry man.

XIN SANT' ILARIO 89 3) your bones. and shaking him in the air as easily as a cat han Giovanni, but he was a very human man, worries a mouse. Then he thrust him into his after all. It was hard for him to believe that chair again and stead holding him so that he his cousin could have really suspected Corona could not novo. of loving Gouache; but Giovanni's behaviour “I do not want to hurt you," he said, "but left no other explanation. On the other hand, I do not like to be attacked in this way. If you he felt that whatever might be thought of his try it again I will break some of own part in the affair, it was Giovanni's own Giovanni was so much astonished at finding fault that things had turned out as they had, himself so easily overmatched that he was silent seeing that he had been guilty of a very serious for a moment, The ex-innkeeper relinquished indiscretion in entering Gouache's rooms unhis hold and picked up his cigar, which had bidden and in reading wliat was meant for the fallen in the struggle. Zouave. “I do not propose to wrestle with you for Giovanni rose and his face was pale again, but & match," said Giovanni at last. “You are the expression had utterly changed in the course stronger than I, but there are other weapons of a few seconds. He suffered horribly, but than those of brute strength., I ropeat that with a pain more easy to bear than that which you are an infernal scoundrel." had tortured him during the past week. Corona "You may repeat it as often as you please," was innocent, and he knew it. Every word she replied San Giacinto, who had recovered his had spoken a week ago, when he had accused composure with marvellous rapidity. “It does her, rang again in his ears, and as though by not hurt mo at all." magic the truth of her statemont was now as “ Then you are a contemptible coward,” cried lear as the day. He could never forgive hin- Giovanni, hotly. self for having doubted her. He did not know “That is not true," said the other. “I never whether he could ever atone for the agony he ran away in my lifo. Perhaps I have not much must have caused her. But it was a thousand reason to avoid a fight," he added, looking down times better that he should live long years of at his huge limbs with a smile. bittor self-reproach than that the woman he so Giovanni did not know what to do. He had loved should have fallen. He forgot San Giacinto never had a quarrel with a man who was ablo and the petty scheme which had brought about 'to broak his neck, but who would not fight like such dire consequences. He forgot his anger of a gentleman. He grew calmer, and could have a moment ago in the supreme joy of knowing laughed at the situation had it been brought that Corona had not sinned, and in the bitter about by any other cause. contrition for having so terribly wronged her. "Jook here, cousin,” said San Giacinto, If he felt anything towards San Giacinto it was suddenly and in a familiar tone, "I am as good gratitude, but he stood speechless under his a gentlemani as you, though I have kept an inn. great emotion, not oven thinking what he should If it is the custom here to play with swords and say. such toys I will take a few lessons and we will "If you doubt the truth.of my explanation,” have it out. But I confess that I would like to said San Giacinto, “ go to the Palazzo Monteknow why you are so outrageously angry. How varchi. Opposite the entrance you will see some did you come by that letter? It was never meant queer things painted on the wall . There are for you, nor for any of yours. I pinned it upon Gouache's initials scrawled a hundred times, and Gouacho's dressing-table with a pin I found the words Sunday' and Mass very 001- there. I took the paper from your wife's tahl spicuous. A simple way, too, would be to ask a week ago yesterday. If you want to know all him whether he did not actually meet Faustina about it I will tell you.”. last Sunday morning. When a man advertises And whom did you intend for the author of his meetings with his lady-love on the walls of the lotter? Whon but my wifo ?” the city, no one can be blamed for reading the " Your wife !" cried San Giacinto in genuine advertisement.' astonishment. " You are out of your mind. He laughed at the conceit and at his own Gonache was to meet Faustina Montevarchi on astuteness; but Giovanni scarcely heeded him Sunday morning at a church, and I invented the or his words. note to prevent the meeting, and put it on his Good-bye," said the latter, holding out his table during the previous afternoon. I am going hand. to marry Donna Flavia, and I do not mean to “ You do not want to fight any niore, then?" allow a beggarly Zouavo to make love to my asked San Giacinto. •future sister-in-law. Since you took the note “Not unless you do. Good-bye." they must have met after all. I wish you had Without another word he left the room and loft it alone." descended into the street. The cold grey dawn Giovanni sank into a chair before thortable was over everything, and the air was raw and and buried his frce in his hands. San Giacinto chilly. There is nothing more dismal than early stood looking at him in silence, beginning to dawn in a drizzling rain when a man has been up comprehend what had happened, and really all night, but Giovanni was unconscious of any distrossed that his comparatively harmless discomfort, and there were wings under his feet stratagem should have caused so much trouble. as he hastened homeward along the slippery He looked at things from a lower point of view pavements. 6 5 2 SANT ILARIO The pallor in his face had given way to her, and yet wishing that she might wake to & slight flush that gave colour and animation to hear what he had to say. But she did not move his cheeks, and though his eyes were bright, nor show any signs of onsciousness. Her their expression was more natural than it had delicate, thin hand lay upon the coverlet. He been for many days. He was in one of the stooped down very slowly and cautiously and strangest humours which can have sway over kissed the wasted fingers. Then he drew back that unconsciously humorous animal, man. In quickly and noiselessly as though he had dono the midst of the deepest self-abasement his something wrong. He thought she must be heart was overflowing with joy. The combina- asleep, and sat down in the chair the nurse had tion of sorrow and happiness is a rare one, vacated. The stillness was profound. The little not fqund every day, but the condition of night light burned steadily without flickering experiencing both at the same time and in the and cast queer long shadows from the floor highest degree is very possible. upwards over the huge tapestries upon the wall. Giovanni, indeed, could not feel otherwise The quaint figures of heroes and saints, that than he did. Had he suspected Corona and had seen many a Saracinesca horn and many a . accused her on grounds wholly frivolous and one die in the anciont vaulted room, seemed to untenable, in the unreasoning outbreak of take the expressions of old friends watching a foolish jealousy, he could not have been so over the suffering woman. A faint odour like persuade of her guilt as to feel the keenest joy that of other pervaded the still air, an odour on finding her innocent. In that case his Giovanni never forgot during his life. Everyremorse would have outweighed his satisfaction. thing was so intensely quiet that he almost Had he, on the other hand, suspected her thought he could hear the ticking of his watch without making the accusation, he would have in his pocket. been happy on discovering his mistake, but could Corona stirred at last, and slowly opening her have felt little or no remorse. As it was, he had eyes, turned them gradually till they met her accused her upon evidence which most tribunals husband's gaze. Āt the first movement she would have thought sufficient for a conviction, made he had risen to his feet and now stood and on seeing all doubt cleared away he realised close besido her. with torrible force the extent of the pain he had “Did you kiss my hand--or did I crean it?" inflicted. While ho had still believed that she she askeri faintly. had fallen, he had still so loved her as to wish " Yes, darling." He could not at once find that he could take the burden of her guilt words to say what he wanted. upon his own shoulders. Now that her innocence Why did you!" was proved beyond all donbt, he had no thought Giovanni fell on his krees by the bedside and but to ask her forgiveness. took her hand in both his ow). He let himself in with a latch-key, and ran " Corona - Corona--forgive me !! lip the dim stairs. A second key opened the came from his heart, und was uttered with an polished door into the dark vestibule, and in accent of despair that there was no mistaking. à moment more he was in the ante-chamber of She knew, faint and scarcely conscious though she Corona's apartment. Two or three wonen, pale' was, that he was not attempting to deceive her with watching, were standing round a table, this tine. But he conld say no more. Many a upon which something was heating over a spirit strong man would in that moment have sobbed lap. Giovanni stoppol and spoke to them. aloud and shed tears, but Giovanni was not as "How is she?” he asked, his voicc unsteady other inen. Under great emotion all expression with anxiety. was hard for him, and the spontaneity of tears The women shook their heads, and one of would have contradicted his nature. them began to cry. They loved their mistress Corona wondered what hall happened, and dearly and had little hope of her recovery. lay quite still, looking at his bent head and They had been amazed, too, at Giovanni's ' fceling the trenbling touch of his hands oi's apparent indifference during the whole week, hers. For several seconds the stillness was, and seemed surprised when he went towards almost as profound as it had been before. Then the door. One motioned to him to make no Giovanni spoke out slowly and earnestly. noise. He turned the latch very gently and "My beloved wifc,” he said, looking up into advanced into the darkener chamber. her face, “I know all the truth now. I know Corona was lying as he had scen her on the what I have done. I know what you have previous evening, and there seenied to be little suffereri. Forgive me if you can. or no change in her state. Her eyes were my whole lifo to deserve your pardon," closed and her breathing was scarcely per For an instant all Corona's beauty returned ceptible. A nurse was nodding in a chair near to her face as she heard his words. Her eyes the night light and looked up as Giovanni shone softly, the colour inounted to her pale entered. He pointed to the door and she went cheeks, and she breathed one happy sigh of out. All was so exactly as it had been twelve relief and gladness. Her fingers contracted and hours earlier that he could hardly realise the closed round his with a tender pressure. immense change that had taken place in his own “ It is true," she said, scarcely audibly. heart during the interval. He stood looking at “You are not trying to deceive me in order to his wife, scarcely breathing for fear of disturbing keep nie alive." The cry . I will give "You are SANT' ILARIO 91 t is true, darling," ho answered. "San paused, not taking her eyes from his.. " Kiss Giacinto. wrote the letter. It was not oven me," she added at last, with a faint smile. meant to seem to come from you. Oh, Corona A moment later he was gone. She gazed long, can you ever forgive me?" at the door through which he had left the room, Sho turned so as to see him better, and looked' and her expression changed more than once, long into his eyes. The colour slowly faded softening and hardening again as the thoughts again from her face, and her expression changed, chased each other through her tired brain. At growing suddenly sad. last she closed her eyes, and presently fell into "I will forgive you. I will try to forget it a peaceful sleep. all, Giovanni. You should have believed me, Giovanni waited in his room until his father for I have never lied to you. It will be long was awake and then went to tell him what had before I am strong again, and I shall have much happened. The old gentleman looked weary and time to think of it." sad, but his keen sight noticed the change in Giovanni rose to his feet, still clasping her his son's manner. hand. Something told him that she was not a You look better," he said. woman who could either forgive or forget such "I have been undeceived," answered Giovanni. an injury, and her tone was colder than he had I have been mistaken, misled by the most hoped. The expiation had begun, and he was extraordinary set of circumstances I havo over already suffering the punishment of his unbelief. heard of.” Ho bore the pain bravely. What right had he Saracinesca's eyes suddenly gleamed angrily, to expect that she would suddonly become as and his white beard bristled round his face. she had teen before? Sho had been and still You have made a fool of yourself," he was, dangerously ill, and her illness had been growled. “You have made your wife ill and caused by his treatment of her. It would be yourself miserable in a fit of vulgar jealousy. long hefore their relations could be again what And now you have been telling her so. they had once been, and it was not for him to Exactly. I have been telling her so." complain. She might have sent him away in an idiot, Giovanni. I always anger; he would not have thought her too kuew it." unkind. But when he remembered her love, he "I have only just found it out," answered the trembled at the thought of living without it. younger man. His voice was very gentle as he answered her, “Then you are anazingly slow at discovery. after a short pause. Why do you stand there staring at me? Do you You shall live to forget it will, Corona. I will expect any synpathy? You will not get it. make you forget it. I will undo what I have Go and say a litany outside your wife's door. dono. You have made me spend the most horribla “Can you, Giovanni? Is there no blood upon week I ever remember, just because you are not your hands?” She knew her husband well, and good enough for her. How could you ever dare could hardly believe that he had refrained from to suspect that woman? I shall taking vengeance upon Gouache. strangle you if you stay here!” " There is none, thank God," replied Giovanni. "That consideration would not have much “ But for a happy accident I should have killed weight," replied Giovanni. “I know how mad the man a week ago. It was all arranged." I have been much better than you can tell me. “ You niust tell him that you have been mis. And yet I doubt whether anyone was ever so takeu," said Corona, simply. strangely mistaken before." Yes, I will." •With your intelligence the wonder is that "Thank you. That is right." you are not always mistaken. Upon my soul, . It is the least I can do. the more I think of it the more I ani amazed Giovanni felt that words were of very little at your folly. You acted liko a creature in the use, and evon hard he wished to say inore he theatre. With your long face and your mystery would not have known how to speak. There and your stage (espair, you even made a fool of was that between them which was too deep for me. At all events, I shall know what to expect all expression, and he know that henceforth he the noxt time it happens. I hope Corona will could only hope to bring back Corona's love by have tho sense to mako you do penance. his own actions. Besides, in her present state, To tell the truth, Giovanni had not expected he guessed that it would be wiser to leave her any better treatment from his father than he than to prolong the interview. actually received, and he was not in a humour "I will go now," he gaid. “You must rest, to resent reproaches which he knew to be well darling, and be quite well to-morrow." deserved. He had only intended to tell the " Yes. 'I can rest now." prince the result of what had occurred, and he She said nothing about seeing him again. relaxed nothing of his determination, even With à humility almost pathetic in such though he might have porsuaded the old a man, he bont down and touched her hand with gentleman that the accumulated evidence had his lips. Then he would have gone away, but undoubtedly justifiedhis doubts. With a short she held his fingers and looked long into his "salutation he left the room and went out, hoping that Gouacho had not accompanied the expedi- "I am sorry for you, dear," she said, and tion to Mentana, improbable as that seemed. Go away. ( 66 3 92 SANT' ILARIO CH. • He was, of course, disappointed, for while he sürprise. He know very well that Sant'Ilario was making inquiries. Gouache was actually on was not a man to make excuses without como the way to the battlo with his corps, as has very extraordinary reasons for such a step. It been already seen. Giovanni spent most of the is a priine law of the code of honour, however, day in the house, constantly inquiring after that an apology duly made must be duly accepted Corona, and trying to occupy his mind in as putting an end to any quarrel, and Anastaso reading, though with little success. The idea saw at once that Giovanni had relinquished all that Gouache might be killed without having intention of fighting. learned the truth began to take possession of "I am very glad that evorything is exhim, and caused him an annoyance he could not plained," answered (iouache. "I confess that explain. "It was not that he felt any very pro). I was surprised beyotti' measure by the whole found remorse for having wronged the man. alfair." His nature was not so sensitive as that. It was "I regret having entered your rooms without rather, perhaps, because he regarded the ex- your permission, continued Giovanni, who planation with Anastase as a part of what he intended to go to the end of what he had owed Corona, that he was so anxious to meet undertaken. “The pin was my wifo's, but the him alire. Partly, too, his anxiety arose from letter was written by another person with a view. his restlessness, and from the desire for action to influencing your conduct. I cannot explain of some sort in which to forget all he had here, but you shall know whatever is necessary suffered, and all he was still suffi ring. when we are alone. Of course, if you still desiro Towards evening he went out and heard news any satisfaction, I am at your service." of the engagement. It was already known that Pray do not suggest such a thing. I have the enemy had fallen back upon Mentanit, and no further feeling of annoyance in the matter." no one cloubted th ultimate result of the day's Gouache insisted on being taken to his own fighting. People were already beginning to lodgings, though Sant' Jlario offered him the talk of going out to take assistance to the hospitality of the Palazzo Saracinesca. By four wounded. The idea struck Giovanni as plausible, w'clock in the morning the ball was extracted and he determined to act upon it at once. He and the surgeon took his leave, reconimending took a surgeon and several men with him, and sleep and quiet for his patient. (ionache, howdrore out across the Campagna to the scene of ever, would not let (iivvanni go without hearing the battle. the end of the story. As hus been told, he found liouache at last, “ The facts are very fou'," said the latter after a long and difficult search. The ground after a nioment's hesitation. It appears that was so broken and divided by ditches, walls, you had arranged to meet a lauly on Sunday and trees, that some of the wounded were not morning. A certain person whom I will not found until the middle of the next lay. Unless namo discovered your intention, and conceivel Giovanni had undertaken the search Anastaseſ the idea of preventing the meeting by sending might have escaped notice for a long time, and you a note purporting to conie from the lady. it was no wonder if he expressed astonish- As he could get none of her notepaper he posment on waking up to find himself comfortably'sessed himself of some of my wife's. He pinned installed in Saracinesca's carriage, tended by the note on your table with tho pin you had the man who a few days earlier had wanted to chanced to find. I was foolish enough to enter take his life. your room and I recognised the pin and the paper. You understand the rest. Gouache laughed merrily. “I understand that you did me a great service. I met the lady after all, but if I had CHAPTER XV received the note I would not have gono, and she would have waited for me. Do you mind GOUACHE's wound was by no means dangerous,, telling me the name of the individual who tried and when he had somewhat recovered from tho to play mo the trick ?" combined effects of loss of blood and excessivo "If you will excuso my discretion, I would fatigue he did not feel much the worse for rather not. He knows that his plan failed, having ball in his shoulder. Giovanni and I should not feel justified in telling you his the doctor gave him food and a little wine in name, from other motiver." the carriage, and long before they reached the As you please," said Gouache. gates of the city the Zouave was well enough I shall find him out." to have heard Sant'Ilario's explanation. The So the interview ended and Giovanni went presence of the surgeon, however, made any home to rest at last, almost as much worn out intimate conversation difficult. an Goulche himself. He was surprised at the "I came to find you," said Giovanni in a low case with which everything had been arranged, voice, because everything has been set right but he was satisfied with the result and felt in your absence, and I was afraid you might that a weight had been taken from his mind. be killed at Mentana without receiving my He slept long and soundly, and awoke the apology." next morning to hear that Corona was much Gouache looked at his companion in some better. + 46 "I daro say ху SANT' ILARIO 93 ܀ The events of Saturday and Sunday had to office of the Chancery without being observed. all appearances smoothed many difficulties from He was able, however, to take out the original the lives of those with whom my history is con- which he carried with him and to compare it cerned. Corona and Giovanni were once more with the copy. Both were by one hand, and united, though the circumstances that had the copy was only distinguished by the scal of produced so terrible a hrcach between them had the government office. It was kept, like all left a shadow on their happiness. Gouache had such documents, in a dusty case' upon which fought his battle and had returned with a slight wero written the number and letter of the wound, so that as soon as he could go out he alphabet by which it was classified. would be able to renew his visits at the Palazzo Meschini hesitated only a moment, and then Montevarchi and see Frustina without resorting decided to substitute the original for the copy: to any moro ingenious stratagoms. San Giacinto Should the kceper of the archives chance to look had failed to produce the trouble ho had at the parchment and discover the absenco of planned, but his own prospects were brilliant the seal, Meschini could easily excuse himself enough. His marriage with Flavia was to tako by saying that ho had mistaken the two, and place on the last of tho month and the prelimi- invloed with that one exception they were very naries were being arranged its quickly as possible. much alike. The keeper, however, noticed Flavia herself was delighted with the new nothing and Amoldo haul the. satisfaction of dignity she assumed in the family, and if she sceing him unsuspiciously return the cardboard was not positively in love with San Giacinto. case to its place on the shelves. He went back was enough attracted by him to look forward to his rooni and set to work. with pleasure upon the prospect of becoming The longer lo looked at the shoot the more his wife, On Montevarchi alone seemed clearly he saw that it would be impossible to preoccupied and silent, but his melancholy mood make the insertion. There was nothing to be was relieved by occasional moments of antici: done but to forge a new document with the pated triumph, while he made frequent visits added words. Ile did not like the idea, though to the library and seemed to find solace in the ho believed himself fully ablo to carry it out. conversation of the librarian, Arnoldo Meschini. There was a risk, he thonght, which ho had not In the future of each of these persons there meant to undertake; but on the other hand the un element of uncertainty which most 'reward was great. llo put forth all his skill to of thom disregarded. As Corona recovereul, procluce the imitation and completed it in teu Giovanni bogan to think that she would really lays to his entire satisfaction. He understool forget as well as forgive all he had made her the preparation of seals as well as the rest of his suffer. Gouache on bis part ontertained the irt, and had no difficulty in making a die which most sanguine hopes of marrying f'austina, corresponde precisely with the wax. In the first Montevarchi looked forward with assurance to place he took off the impression carefully with the success of his plot against the Saracinesca. kneaded breacl. From this with a little plaster™ San Giacinto and I'lavia were engaged, indeed, of Paris ho reproduced the scal, which he very buit were not yet married. And yet the issue carefully retouched with a tine steel instrument of none of these events was absolutely sure. until it was quite perfect. Over this again ho The first matter with which we are concerned poured melted lead, thus making a hard die is the forgery of tho clauses in the clocuments, with which he could stamp the wax without which Meschini had undertaken to accomplish danger of breaking the instrument. Once moro and actually finished in less than three weeks. he retouched the lead with a graving tool, using It was indeed an easy task for a man so highly a lens for the work, and ultimately turning out skilled in the manufacture of chirographic anti. an absolutely accurate copy of the seal used in quities, but he had found himself nexpectedly the Chancery office. He made experiments as balked at the outset, and the ingenuity he dig: he proceedei, and when he was at last satisfied played in overcoming the difficulties he met he turned to the actual forgery, which was with is worth recording. a longer matter and required greater skill anel It was necessary in the first place to ascertain patience. Nothing was omitted which could whether there was a copy of the principal dead make the fraud complete. The parchment At tho Chancery. Ho had no trouble in finding issumed the exact shade under his marvellous that such a copy existed, and was indeed fully manipulation. The smallest roughness was prepared for the contingency. But when tho copied with faultless precision, and then by parchment was produced, his face foll. It was many hours of handling and the uso of a litti a smaller sheet than the first and the writing dust collected among the books in the library, he was a littlo wider, so tsat the spaco at the foot imparted to the whole the appearance of of the first page was considerably less than in age which was indispensablo. When he had the original. He saw at once that it would be finished ho showed his work to old Monte. ins possiblo to make tho insertion, even if he varchi, but by an inherent love of duplicity could get possession of the document fot a time did not toll him that the whole document was long enough to execute the work. Moreover, forged, merely pointing to the inserted cletise though ho was not actually watched while lie as a masterpiece of imitation, First, however, rend it, he could see that it would be almost he pretended that the copy had actually conimpracticable to use writing materials in the tained the inserted words, and the prince found on SANT DLARID CH hard to believe that this was not the case. after the trial was over and the property Moschini.was triumphant. awarded to his son-in-law. It was perhaps Again lo returned to the Chancery and enough for his ambition that his daughter should sübstituted what he had written for the first be Princess Saracinesca, arst he did not doubt original upon which he had now to make the his power to control some part of the fortune insertion. There was no difficulty hero, and San Giacinto, who was wholly innocent in the yet 1. matter, would, he thought, be deeply gratöfül om safer after all to forge the whole of the for having been told of his position, and would second as he had done the first. 1 slip of the slow his gratitude in a befitting manner. pen, an unlucky drop of ink might mar Moreover, Montevarchi's avarico was The work and excite suspicion, whereas if he grand scale, and it was not so much the made a mistake upon a fresh sheet of parchment possession of more money for himself that he he could always begin again. There was only one coveted, as the aggrandisement of his children danger. The Saracinesca might have nade some and grandchildren. The patriarchal system private mark upon the original which shonld often producos this result. He would scarcely elude even his microscopic examination. He have known what to do with a greater fortune spent nearly a day in examining the sheet with than he possessed, but he looked forward with a lens, but could discover nothing. Being a wild delight to sceing his descendants masters satisfied of the safety of the proceeding he of so much wealth. The fact that he could not execute the forgery with the same care he had hope to enjoy his satisfaction very long did bestowed upon the first, and showed it to his not detract from its reality or magnitude. The employer. The latter could scarcely believe miser is generally long-lived, and does not begin his eyes, and was very far from imagining that to anticipate death until the catastrophe is near the two originals were intact and carefully at hand. Even then it is a compensation to locked up in Meschini's room. The prince took him to feel that the heirs of his body aro to the document and studied its coutents again be made glorious by what he has accumulated, during many hours before he finally decided to and his only fear is that they will squander return it to old Saracinesca. what he has spent his strength in anassing. It was a moment of intense excitement. Ile He crucates his children to be thrifty hesitated whether he sliould take the manu- and rejoices when they spend no money, scripts back hinseif or send them by a readily believing them to be as careful as messenger. Had he been sure of controlling himself, and seldom reflecting that, if he himself, he would have gone in person, but he furnished them with the means, their true disknow that if Saracinesca should chance to look position might turn out to be very different. over the writing when they were together, it It is so intensely painful to him to think of would be almost impossible to conceal emotionwealth being wasted that he cultivates the under such a trial of perve. What he really belief in the Chriftiness of those who must profit hoper was that the prince would think no more hy his death. If he has been born to worldly of ihe matter, and put away the parcel without state as well as to a great inheritance, ho examining the contents. (xtends the desire of accumulation to the Montevarchi pondered long orer the course he fortunes of his relations and descendants, and should pursue, his eyes gleaming now and then shows a landable anxiety that they should with a wild triumph, and then growing dull and possess all that he can get for themi, provided it glasby at the horrible thought of discovery. is quite impossible that he should get it for Theil again the conciousness that he was com. himself. The powers of the world have been to mitting a great crime wwercame him, and he is great extent built up on this principle, and twisted his tiogers nervonsly. He had embarked it is a maxim in many a great family that thero upou the undertaking, however, and be fully i no ccouony like enriching one's relatives to belioveel that it would be impossible to draw the third aud fourth generation. back rivon had he wished to do so. TIR The struggle in Montevarclii's ruind was so insertions were made and could unt be erased. insignificant, and lasted so short a time, that it It is possible that at one moment, had Monte- might be disregarded altogether wore it not varchi known the truth, he would have drawn almost universally true that the hunian mind back; but it is equally sure that if he had done so hesitates at the moment of committing a crime. he would sooner or later have regretted it, and That nioment of hesitation has preventer? would have done all his power to recover lost millions of frightful deeds, and has betrayed ground and to perpetrate the fraud. The thousands of carefully plotted conspiracies whose dominant passion for money, when it is on the success seemed assured, and it is amazing to point of being satisfiert, is one of the strongest think what an influence has been exerted upon incentives to evil decds, and in the present case the destinies of the human race by the instinctive the stake was enormous. He would not let it fear of crossing the narrow, boundary between slip through his fingers. He rejoiced that the right and wrong. The time occupied in such ng was done and that the millions of the 'retlection is often only infinitesimal. It has Saracinesca were already foredoomed to be his. been called tho psychological moment, and if It is doubtful whether he was able to form the definition means that it is the instant during clear conception of what wonld take place which the soul suggests, it is a true one. It is - a SANT LARIO 95 then that our natural repulsion for evil asserts not appear surprising that the latter should itself; it is then that the consequences of what'successfully impose upon a court of law. The we are about to do rise clearly before us as in circumstances of the Saracinesca family history, a mirror; it is then that our courago is suddenly too, lent an air of probability to the alleged strengthened to do the right, or descrts us and facts. The poverty and temporary amappearleaves us mere instruments for the accomplish- ance of Leono's decendants explained why they niont of the wrong. If humanity had not an had not attempted to recover their rights. Naj. element of good in it, there would be no hesita- more, since Leone had died when his son was tion in the perpetration of crime, any more than an infant, and since there was no copy of the a wild beast pauses before destroying a weaker locament among his papers, it was more than creature. Perhaps there is no clearer proof of probable that the child on growing up hadd the existence of a divine soul in man, than his never known the nature of the deed, and would intuitive reluctance to do what in the lower' not have been likely to suspect what was now animals would be most natural. Circunstances, put forward as the truth, unless his attention education, tho accidents of life, all tend to make were called to it by some person possessed of this psychologic moment habitually shorter or the necessary knowledge. longor. The suspense created in the conscience, The papers were returned to Prince Saracinesca during which the intelligence is uncertain how in the afteroon with a polito note of thanks. It to act, may last a week or a second, a year or ill he remembered that the prince had not read a quarter of an hour; but it is a staye through the documents, as he has meant to do, in conwhich all must pass, both the professional sequence of the trouble between Giovanni and criminal and the just man who is perhaps Corona which had maile him forget his intention. tempted to commit a crime but once during his He had not looked over them since he had been Life: a young man and the recollection of their contents Old Lotario Montevarchi had never been was far from clear. Having always supposed guilty of any misdeed subject to the provisions the collateral branch of his family to be extinct, of the penal code ; but he liad done most things it was only natural that he should havo bestowed in his love of money which were not criminal very little thought upon the ancient deeds which only because the law had not foreseen the ho belioved to have been drawn up in due form tortuous peculiarities of his mind. Even now and nadie perfectly legal. le persuaded himself that the end was When he came honie towards evening, he found righteous one, and that his course was morally the sealed packet upon his table, and having justifiable. He had that power of deceiving opened it, was about to return the papers to himself which characterises the accomplished their place in the archives. It chanced that he hypocrite, and he easily built up for San Giacinto had a letter to writo, however, and he pushed a whole cuifico of sympathy which seemed in the documents aside before taking them to the his own view very real and moral. He reflected library. While he was writing, Giovanni entered with satisfaction upon the probable feelings of the room. the old Leone Saracinesca, when, after relin As has been seen, the prince had been very quishing his birthright, he found himself married angry with his son for having allowed himself and the father of a son. How the poor man to doubt Corona, and though several days had must havo cursed his fully and longed for some elapsed since the matter had been explained, means of undoing the deed ! It was but the old man's wrath had not wholly subsided. common justice after all--it was but common He still felt considerable resentment against justice, and it was a mere accident of fate that Giovanni, and his intercourse with the latter İleone's great-grandson, who was now to be had not yet regained its former cordiality: As reinstateil in all the glorios of bis princely Sant' Ilario entered the room, Saracinesca possessions, was also to marry Flavia Monte- looked up with an expression which showed varchi. clearly that the interruption was unwelcome. The prospect was too alluring, and the sus "Do I disturb you?" asked Giovami, noticing pense lasted but a moment, though he believed the look. that he spent much time in considering the Do you want anything?" situation. The thoughts that really occupied "No-nothing especial. him were not of a nature to hinder the accom Saracinesca's eye foll upon the pile of manu. plishment of his plan, and he was not at all scripts that lay on the table. It struck him that surprised with himself when ho finally tied up Giovanni might occupy himself by looking them the packet and rang forsa niessenger. Detection over, while he himself finished the letter he had was impossible, for by Moschini's skilful man. begun. agement, the original and the official copy * There are those deeds relating to San corresponded exactly, and were such narvellous Giacinto," he said, you might look through forgerios as to defy discovery. When it is con- them before they are put away. Montevarchi sidoted that the greatest scientists and specialists borrowed them for a day or two and has just in Europa havo recently disagreed concerning sert them back.” doouments which aro unclaubtedly of modern Giovanni took the bundle and established hini. manufacture, and which were produced by, self in a comfortable chair beside a low stand, just such men as Arnoldo Meschini, it need where the light of a lamp fell upon the pages as 93 means. >> 96 SANT'FILARIO CH. he turned them. He made no remark, but began here 80 tamen pacto -- that means 'by this to examine the documents, one by ono, running agreement '-does it not ? I am not so rusty his eye rapidly along the lines, as he rend on as you seem to think." mechanically, not half comprehending the sense It means on this understayding, however.' of the words. He was preoccupied by thoughts Go on. Quod si, that if- praedicto Domino of Corona and of what had lately happened, so Leoni, to the aforesaid Don Leone--ex legitimo that he found it hard to fix his attention. The matrimonio, from a lawful marriage --- heres prince's pen scratched and spåttered on the nasceretur, an heir should be boru--hoc instru. paper, and irritated Giovanni, for the old gentle- mentum, this deed shall be null, worthless, and man wrote a heavy, nervous handwriting, and invalid. You cannot get any other sense out of lost his temper twenty times in five minutes, it. I have tried for a quarter of an hour. You mentally cursing the ink, the paper and the and I aro beggars. Saracinesca, Torleone, pen, and wishing he could write like a shopman Barda, and all the rest belong to San Giacinto, or a clerk. the direct descendant of your great-grandfathors' Giovanni's attention was arrested by the parch- older brother. You are simplo Don Loone, ment on which the principal deed was excuted, and I am plain Don Giovanni. That is what it and he began to read the agreement with more care than he had bostowed upon the other “Good God !" cried the old man in extreme papers. He understood Latin well enough, but horror. “If you should be rightthe crabbed characters puzzled him from time “I am right,” replied Giovanni, very pale. to time. He read the last words on the first With wild eyes and trembling, hands tho page without thinking very much of what they prince spread the document upon the table and meant. read it over again. He turned it and went on Eo tamen pacto, quod si praedicto the end, his excitement bringing back in Domino Leoni ex legitimo matrimonio heres tho moment such scholarship as he had once nasceretur, instrunientum hoc nullum, vanun possessed and making every sentence as clear as atque plane invalidum fiat." the day. Giovanni smiled at the quaint law Latin, and “ Not even San Giacinto-not even a title !" then read the sentence over again. His face he exclainıcd desperately. He fell back in his grew grave as he realised the tremendous import chair, crushed by the tremendous, blow that of those few words. Again and again he trans- had fallen so unexpectedly upon him in his lated the phrase, trying to extract from it old age. some other meaning than that which was so " Not even San Giacinto," repeatod Giovanni, unpleasantly clcar. No other construction, stupiilly. His presence of niind began to forhowever, could be put upon what was written, sake him, too, an he sank down, burying his and for some minutes Giovanni sat staring face in his hands. As in a drtimi ho saw at the fire, bewildered and almost territied his cousin installed in the very chair where his by his discovery. father now sat, master of the house in which he, asked at last, in arvoice that made his father him, master of the fortresses and castles forme drop lis pen fair villas and the broad lands, the palaces and "Not for thirty years.' the millions to which Giovanni had thought " Then you had better read them at once. himself heir, lord over the wealth and in. San Giacinto is Prince Saracinesca and you and heritances of his race, dignified by countless I are noboily.” titles and by all the consideration that falls to Saracinesca uttered a fierce oath and sprang the lot of the great in this world. from his chair. For a long time neither spoke, for both were What do you mean?” he asked, seizing equally overwhelm 1 by the magnitude of the Giovanni's arm violently with one hand and lisaster that liung over their heads. Theja. taking the parchment with the other. looked furtively at cach other, and each saw " Read for yourself. There at the foot of that his companion was white to the lips. The the page, from cu tamen pacto,' It is plain old man was the first to break the silence. enough. It says, 'On the understanding that At all events, San Giacinto does not know if an heir le born to the aforesaid Don Luone, how the deed stands," he said. in lawful wedllock, the present instrument shall “It will make it all the harder to tell him," be wholly null, void, and inefficacious.' An replied Giovanni. heir was born, and San Giacinto is that heir's "To tell him ? You will not be su mal grandsou. You may tear up the document. Do you think it would be honourable," It is not worth the parchment it is written asked the younger man, for us to roinain uponi, nor are we either." in possession of what clearly does not belong “ You are mad, Giovannino !" exclaimed the to us? I will not do it." prince, hoarsely, " that is not the meaning i “We have been in possession for more than The words. You have forgotten your Latin.” a century." "I will get you a dictionary.-or a lawyer- “That is no reason why we should continuo whichever you prefer." to steal another man's monoy,” said Giovaimi.. "You are not in carnest, my boy. Laik " We are men. Let us act like men. It is bitter. and look up. > - 3:

you a home. wife." XV. SANT' "ILARIO 97 It is horrible. But we have no other course. fully. "It is not so had as it looked. You" After all, Corona has Astrardente. She will give inust be right about that point." She io rich." “Unless the courts decide that San Giacinto “Me? Why do you say me? Us both." is entitled to compensation and interest, because *** I will work for my living," said Giovanni, four generations have been kept out of the quietly. "I am young. I will not live on my property. Both men looked grave. The suggestion was “It is absurd !” exclaimed the prince. “It înpleasant. Such judgments had been given is Quixotic. San Giacinto has plenty of noney before and might be given again. without ruining us. Even if he finds it out, “We had better send for our lawyer," said I will fight the case to the end. I am master the prince at last. “The sooner.we know the here, as my father and my father's father were real value of that bit of parchment, the better it before me, and I will not give up what is mine will be for us. I cannot bear the suspense of without a struggle. Besides, who assures us waiting a day to know the truth. Imagine that that ho is really what he represents himself to the very chair I am sitting upon may belong to bo? What proves that he is really tho descendant San Giacinto. I never liked the fellow, from of that same Leone ?" the day when I first found him in his inn at “For that matter," answered Giovani,“he Aquila." will have to produce very positive proofs, valid * It is not his fault," answered Giovanni, in law, to show that he is really the man. I will quietly. “This is a perfectly simple matter. give up everything to the lawful heir, but Wo did not know what these papers were. I will certainly not turn beggar to please an Even if we had known, we should have laughed adventurer. But I say that, if San Giacinto at them until we discovered that we had a represents the elder branch of our house, we cousin. After all, we shall not starve, and what is have no right here. If I were sure of it I would a titlo? The Pope will give you another when not sleep another night under this roof." he knows what has happened. I would as soon The old man could not withhold his admira- be plain Don Giovanni as Prince of Sant'Ilario." tion. There was something supremely noble "For that matter, you can call yourself and generous about Giovanni's readiness to Astrardente.” sacrifice everything for justice which made his “I would rather not,” said Giovanni, with old heart beat with a strange pride. If he was something like a laugh. "But I must tell reluctant to renounce his rights, it was, after Corona this news. all, more on Giovanni's account, and for the sake “Wait till she is herself again. It might of Corona and little Orsino. He himself was an disturb her too much." old man, and had lived most of his life out “You do not know her!" Giovanni laughed already. heartily this time. “If you think she cares for “You have your mothor's heart, Giovannino," such things, you are very much mistaken in her he said simply, but there was a slight moisture character. She will berir the misfortune better in his eyes, which few cnotions had ever had than any of us. Courage, padre mio! Things the power to bring there. are never so black as they look at first.” “It is not a question of heart," replied “I hope not, my boy, I hope not! Go and (Giovanni. We cannot keep what does not tell your wife, if you think it best. I would belong to us. rather be alone." “We will let the law decide what we can Giovanni left the room, and Saracinesca was kеер. Do you realise what it would be like, alone. He sank back once more in his chair, what a position we should occupy if we were and folded his strong brown hands together upon suddenly declared beggars ? We slıould be the edge of the table before him. In spite of all absolute paupers. We do not own a foot of Giovauni could say, the old man felt keenly the * land, a handful of money that does not come horror of his position. Only those who, having under the provisions of that accursed clause." been brought up in immense wealth and Wait a minute," exclaimed Giovanni, sud- accustomed from childhood to the pomp and denly rocollecting that he possessed something circumstance of a very great position, are sud, of his own, a fact he had wholly forgotten in the denly deprived of everything, can understand excitement of his discovery. We shall not be what he felt. wholly without resources. It does not follow He was neither avaricious nor given to vanity: from this decrl that we must give to San Giacinto He had not wasted his fortune, though he had any of the property our branch of the family has spent magnificently a princely income. He had acquired by marriage, from your great-grand- not that small atřection for greatness which, fathor's time to this. It must be very gonsider- strange to say, is often found in the very great. alke. To begin with mo, my fortuno came from But his position was part of himself, so that he my mother. Then tliero was your mother, and could no moro imagine himself plain Don Leone your father's - other, and so on. San Gincinto Saracinesca than he could conceive himself has no claim to anything not originally the , boasting of his ancient titlos. And yet it was property of the old Leone who made this quite plain to him that be must either cease to be a princo altogether, or accept a new title " That is truo," roplied the prince, noro hope- as a charity from his sovereign. As for his doed.”

98 66 A -- SANTILARIO GH. 'fortune, it was only too plain that the greater "Are you quite sure of all the facts ?" she part of it had never been his. asked when he had finished, Are you certain To a man of his temperament the sensation of that San Giacinto is the man! I cannot tell finding himself a mere imposter was intolerable. why, but I have always distrusted him since he His first impulse had, of course, been to fight first came to us. the case, and had the attack upon his position “ That is the only point that remains to bo. come from Sau Giacinto, he would probably have cleared up,' answered Giovanni. “ If he is not done 80. But his own son had discovered the the man he will not venture to take any steps truth, and had put the matter clearly before him in the matter, lest he should be exposed and lose in such a light as to make an appeal to his what he has." honour. He had no choice but to submit. He *** What will you do? could not allow himself to be outdone in common I hardly know. If he is roally our cousin, honesty by the boy he loved, nor could he have we niust give up everything without a struggle been guilty of doliberate injustice, for his own. We are impostors, or little better. I think advantage, after he had been convinced that he: I onght to tell him plainly how the deed is had no right to his possessions. He belonged to madlo out, in order that he may judge whether a race of men who had frequently committed or not he is in a position to prove his identity." great crimes and done atrocious deels, notorious “Do you imagine that he does not know all in history, from motives of personal ambition, about it as well as we ourselves ? " for the love of wonen or out of hatred for men, Probably not otherwise he would have but who had never had the reputation of loving spoken." money or of stooping to dishonour for its sake. "The papers came back from Montevarchi As soon as he was persuaded that everything to-lay," said Corona. " It is gratuitous to belonged to San Giacinto, he felt that lie must suppose that the old man has not told his future resign all in favour of the latter. son-in-law what they contain. Yes--you seo it One doubt alono romained to be solved. It yourself. Therefore San (incinto knows. Thorewas not absolutely certain that San Giacinto fore, also, if he is the man he pretends to be, he was the man he represented himself to be. It will let you know his intentions soon enough. was quite possible that he should have gained I fancy you forgot that in your excitement. possession of the papers he held by some means If he says nothing, it is because he camot prove known only to himself; such things are often his rights." sold as curiosities, and as the last of the older “ It is true,” replied (iiovanni, “I did not branch of whom there was any record preserve think of that. Nevertheless, I would like to in Rome had died in obscurity, it was conceivable, le beforehand. I wish him to know that we that the ex-innkeeper might have found or shall make no opposition. It is a point of bought the documents he had left, in order honour. to call himself Marchese di San (iiacinto. " Which a woman camot understand, of Saracinesca did not go so far as to believe that ourse," ulded Corout, calmly. the latter had any knowledge whatsoever of the "I did not say that. I do not incan it." main deed which was about to cause so much Well.. do you want my advice?" trouble, unless he had scen it in the hands of Always." Montevarchi, in which case he could not be The single word was uttered with an accent blame if he brought a suit for the recovery implying more than meru trust, and was aco so null}, "alth. companied by a louk full of strong feeling. But Corona's expression did not change. Her eves returned the glance quietly, without affectation, neither lovingly nor unlovingly, but indifferently. Giovanni felt a sharp little pain in his heart as le realised the change that hasl taken place inza CHAPTER XVI his wife. My ailvice is to do nothing in the matter. GIOVANNI was quite right in his precliction.con. San Giacinto may be an impostor ; indeed, it is cerning Corona's conduct. He found her in her not at all likely. If he is, he will tako dressing-room, lying upon the conch near the avantage of your desire to act generously. fire, as he had found her on that fatal evening: He will ho forowarned and forearne and will three weeks carlier. Ho sat down beside hor, have tino to procuro all the proofs he wants. and took her hand in his. She had not wholly | What could you sny om him? If you 0911 recovered her strength yet, but her beauty haul prove your birth, I give you all I possess.' returned and seemerl perfected by the suffering He will at once sce that nothing else is necesthrough which she had passed. In a few worls sary, and if ho is a rogue he will succedd. he told her the whole story, to which she listenerl Besides, as I tell you, he knows what that deed witbout showing any great surprise. Once or contains as well as you do, and if he is the man twice, while he was speaking, her dark eyes he will bring an action against your father in a sought his with an expression he did not fully week. If he does not, you gain the advantage understand, but which was at least kind and full of having discovered that he is an impostor of sympathy. without exposing yourself to be robhed." 97 46 power to make you!" XVI: SANT' ILARIO :99 It goes against tho grain," said-Giovanni. carnest. She said nothing, therefore, but left But I suppose you are righat. her hand in his. His love, which had been as You will do as you think best. I have no fierce and strong as ever, oven while he had you fellow my advice." doubted her faith, began to take new propor. "No power? Ah, Corona, do not say that!” tions of which he had never dreamt. He felt A short silence followed, during which Corona like a man struggling with death in some visible looked placidly at the firo, whilo Giovanni and tangible shape. gazed at her dark face and tried to read the "Is it all over? Will you never love me thoughts that were passing in her mind. She again ?” he asked hoarsely. did not speak, however, and his guesswork was Her averted faco told no tarde, and still her inconclusive. What hurt him most was her fingers lay inert between his brnarl hanyls. She indifference, and he longed to discover by some knew how he suffered, and yet shu would not sign that it was only assumed. soothe him with the delusive hope for which he *I would rather do as you think best,” lie longed so intonsely. said at last. "For God's sake, Corona, speak to me! Is She glanced at him and then looked back at there never to be any love again? Can you the blazing logs. never forgive me?” "I have told you what I think," she answered. Ah, dear, I have forgiven you wholly- " It is for you to judge and to decide. The there is not an unkind thought left in ny heart whole natter affects you inore than it docs me. for She turned and laid the hand that “Is it not the same?” was free upon his shoulder, looking into his face "No. If you lose the Saracinesca titles and with an expression that was almost imploring property we shall still be rich enough. You “Do not think it is that, oh, not that! I would have a fortune of your own, and so have I. The forgive you agaill, a thousand timesnanie is, after all, an affair which concerns you And love me?" he cried, throwing his arms personally. I should have married you as round her neck, and kissing her passionately r'cadily had you been called anything else." again and again. But suddenly he drew back, The reference to the past made Giovanni's for there was no response to his caresses. He heart leap, and the colour came quickly to his turned very pale as he saw the look in her eyes. faco. It was almost as though she had said There were tears there, for the love that had. that she would have loved him as well had he been, for his present pain, perhaps, but thero horne another name, and that might mean that was not onc faint spark of the fire that had she loved him still. But her calmness belied the burned in other days. hasty conclusion he drew from her words. Ho "I cannot say it !” she answered at last. thought she looked like a statue, as she lay Oh, do not make me say it, for the sake of all there in her magnificent rest, her hands folded that was once ! upon her knees before her, her eyes so turned In his emotion Giovanni slipped from the low that he could see only the drooping lids. chair and knelt beside his wife, one arm still "A personal atfair !” he exclaimed suddenly, around her. The shock of disappointment, in in a bitter tone. ** It was different once, the very moment when he thought she was Corona." yielding, was almost more than he could bear. For the first time since they had been talking Har not her heart grown wholly cold, the sight her face betrayed some cmotion. There was of his agonised face would have softened her. the slightest possible quiver of the lip as she She was profoundly moved and piticd him answered. exceeilingly, but she could not do more. “ Your titles were nerer anything but a "Giovanui.do not look at me so ! If I could ! personal affair." If I only could- “What concerns mic concerns you, dear," Are you made of stone? he asked, in a said Giovanni, tenderly. voice choking with pain. In so much that I am very sorry-sincerely " What can I do!" she cried in despair, sorry, when anything troubles you. Her voice sinking back and hiding her face in her hands. was kind and gentle, but there was no love in She was in almost as great distress as he hinthe words. "Belicve me, Giovanni, I would self. give all I possess to spare you this." “Love me, Corona ! Ouly love me, ever so “All you possess_.js there not a little love little ! Remember that you loved me once----" left in your all :" "God knows how dearly! Could I forget it, The cry.came from his heart. He took her I might love you nowband in both of his, antenned forward towards Oh, forget it then, beloved ! Let it be hor. Her fingers lay passively in his grasp, and undone. Let the past be unlived. Say that the colour did not change in her dark chceks. you never loved me before, and let the new life A moment ago, there had been in her heart begin to-day--can you not? Will you not? It a passionate longing for the past, which had is so little" I ask, only the beginning. I will almost betrayed itself, but when he spoko of make it grow till it shall fill your heart. Sweet Present love his words had no power to rouse love, dear love love me but enough to say a responsive 'echo. And yet she could not itanswer him roughly, for he was evidently in "Do you think I would not, if I could! Ah, 66 15 >> 6 79 . .

100 SANT' ILARIO CH. bid me. I would give my whole life to bring back what taken place in bim, and that his resoluto will is gone, but I cannot. It is dead. You --10, had once more asserted itself. not you..some evil thing has killed it. Say it! "Corona !” he said at last, in a voice that Yes, dear, I would say it. I will say it if you was almost calm. Giovami, I love you-yes, those are Without changing her position she looked up the words. Do they mean anything? Can at him. She has been conscious that he hail I make them sound true? Can I make the dear left her side, and she experienced a physical alive again! Is it anything but the breath of sensation of relief. my lips ? Oh, Giovanni, my lost love, why "Corona,” he repeated, when he saw that sho Are you not Giovanni still?" hcard him, “I do not complain. It is all my Again, his arms went round her and he pressed fault and my doing. Only, let it not be hate, her passionately to his heart. She turneil pale, dear. I will not touch you, I will not molest and though she tried to hide it, she shrank from you. I will pray that you may love ne again. his embrace, whilo her lips quivered and the I will try and do such things as may mako you tears of pain started in her eyes. Sho sutered love mo as you did once. Forgive me, if my horribly, in a way she had never dreamed of as kisses hurt you. I did not know they would, possible. Ho sa w what she felt and let her fall but I have seen it. I am not a brute. If back upon the cushions, while he still knelt Į were, you would put something of the beside her. He saw that his mere touch was human into my heart. It shall never happen repugnant to her, and yet he could not leave again, that I forget. Our life must begin again. her. He saw how bravely she struggled to hear The old Giovanni was your husband, and his kisses, and how revolting they were to her, is dead. It is for me to win another love from and get the magic of her beauty held his you. Shall it be so, dear? Is it not to be all passionate nature under a spell, while the lofty different-oren to my very name?” dignity of her spirit enthralled his soul. She All, all different,” repeated Corona in a low was able to forgive, though he had su injured voice. Oh, how could I be so unkind ! How her, she was willing to love him, if she coukl, could I show you what I felt? though he had wouncler her se cruelly; it was Suddenly, and without the least warning, sho torture to think that she could go no further, sprang to her feet and made two steps towards that he should never again hear the thrill of him. The impulso was there, but the reality passion in her voice, nor see the whole strength was gone. Her arms were stretched out, an of her soul rise in her cyes when his lips niet hers, there was a look of supreme angnish in her eyes. There was something grand and trugiu in her She stopperl short, then turned away once suffering, in her realisation of all that he had more, and as she sank upon the couch, burying taken from her by his distrust. Slie sank back her face in the cushions, the long-restrained on her couch, clasping her hands together so tears broke forth, and she sobbed as though her tightly that the veins showed clearly beneath heart must break. the olive skin. As she tried to overcome her Giovanni wished that his own suffering could emotion, tho magnificent outline of her face was find such an outlet, but thero was no such relief ennobled by her pain, the lids closed over her possible for his hardy masculine nature. He dark eyes, and the beautiful lips set themselves could not bear the sight of her grief, and yet ho sternly together, as though resolved that no knew that he could not comfort her, that to lay syllable should pass them which could hurt him, his hand upon her forehead would only add even though they could not formulate tho words a new sting to the galling, wound. Ho turned he would have given his soul to hear. his face away and leaned against the heavy Giovanni knelt beside her, and gazed into her chimney-piece, longing to shut out the sound face, He knew she had not faintcd, and he was of her sobs from his ears, submitting to almost glad that for a moment ho could not see a torture that might well have expiated a her eyes. Tenderly, timidly, he put out his greater misdeed than his. The time was past hand and laid it on her clasped fingers, then when he could feel that an enbroken chain of drew it back again very quickly, as thongh evidence hal justified him in doubting and Badilenly remembering that the action might accusing Corona. He know the woman he had pain her. Her heavy hair was plaitect into injured better now than ho had known her then. a thick black coil that fell upon the arm of the for \ic understood the whole depth and breadth couch. He bent lower and pressed his lips upon of the love he had so ruthlessly destroyed. It the silken tress, noixelessly, fearing to disturb was incredible to him, now, that he should over her, fearing lest she should even notice it. have mistrusted a creature so noblo, so infinitoly He had lost all his pride and strength and grander than himself. Every tear sho shed feli dominating power of character and he felt like molten fire upon his heart, every sob that himself unworthy to touch her. echoed through tho quiet room was a reproach But ho was too strong a man to continue long that racked his heart-strings and penetrtter! in such a state. Before Corona opened her eyes, to the secret depths of his soul. "Ho could he had risen to his feet and stood at some neither undo what he had dono nor soothe the distance from her, resting his arm upon the pain inflicted by his actions. He could only chimney-piece, watching her still, but with an stand there, and submit patiently to the suffer. expression which showed that a change had ing of his expiation. -- XVI SANT' ILARIO IOI >> spare you this? 72 > > . The passionate outburst subsided at last, was no longer weak, as he had been the first and Corona lay pale and silent upon her time. cushions. She knew what he felt, anut pitied of Corona's nature which had so suddenly become He was wondering at the hidden depths him more than herzalf. visible. He comprehended the magnitude of "It is foolislenf me to cry," she said presently. a passion which in being extinguished could "It cannot help you.”. leave such emotions behind, and he saw with * Help ine?" exclaimed Giovanni, turning awful distinctness the beauty of what he had suddenly, “It is not I, it is you. I would lost, and the depth of the abyss by which he have died to save you those tears. was separated from it. Only a woman who had “I know 'it-would not I give my life to loved to distraction could make such desperate And I will. Come and sit efforts to revive an affection that wils dead; beside me. Take my hand. Kiss ine-be your only a woman capable of the most lofty (levotion own self. It is not true that your kisses hurt could siuk her pride and her own ayony in the me-it shall not be true attempt to mako the man slie had loved forgive “You'do not mean it, clear,” replied Giovanni, hintself. He coulil havo borne her reproaches saully. “I know how true it is.' more casily than tho sight of her anguish, but "It shall not be true. Am I a devil to hurt she would not reproach him. He could have you so? Was it all your fault? Was I not borne her hatred almost better than such 1- wrong, too? Indeedsellish forgiveness, and yet she had forgiven · No, my beloved. There is nothing wrong him. For the first time in his life he wished in you. If you do not love me----- that he might die-he, who loved life so dearly. I do. I will in spite of myself.” Perhaps it would be easier for her to sco him “You mean it, darling.--I know. You are lead at her feet than to feel that he must always good enough, even for that. But you camot. be near her, and that she could not love him. It must be all my loing, now." " It is of no use, dear," he said at last. “I must, criel Corona, passionately. “I was right. The old Giovanni is dead. We "Unless I love you, I shall die. I was wrong, must beyin our life again. Will you let me too, you shall lot me say it. Was I not mail to try? Will you let mo do my best to live for do the things I did? What man would not have you, and to raise up it new love in your heart? suspected ? Would a man. be a man at all, if Can you? Can we go back to the old times he did not watch the woman he loves ? Would hen we first ret? Can you? Can I?" love bo love without jealousy when there seems "If Voll willto be cause for it? Should I have married you, • If I will Is there anything I would not had I thought that you would be so careless as do to gain that?” to let me lo such things without interfering ? “Our lives may become so different from what Was it not my fault when I came back that they now are as to make it more easy, night and would not tell you what had Giovanni. “Do you realise how everything happened ? . Was it not madness to ask you to will be changed when we have given up this trust me, instead of telling you all? And yet," house? Perhaps it is better that it should be sho turned her face away, “aul yet, it hurt so, after all." mo so !" " Yes--far better. Oh, I am so sorry for “You shall not blame yourself, Corona. It you!” was all my fanlt." "Who pities, may yet love,” he said in low Cano and sit here, beside me. There-- tones. take my hand. Does it tremble ? Do I draw Corona did not make any answer, but for it away? Am I not glad that it should rest in many minutes lay watching the dancing flames. yours ? Look at me--am I not glad? Giovanni Giovanni know that it would be wiser to say - dear husband-true love ! Look into my nothing more which could rocall the past, and ryes. Do you not see that I love you? Why when he spoke again it was to ask her opinion 'do you shake your head and tremble? It is once more concerning the best course to pursue trnc, I tell you." in regard to the property. Suddenly the force smile faded from her "I still think,'' answered Corona, 'that you face, tho artificial expression she tried so had better do nothing for the present. pathetically to make real, disappeared, and will soon know what San Giacinto means to do. gave place to a look of horror and fear. She You may be sure that he has any rights he drew back her hand and turned desperately will not forget to press them. If it comes to away. the worst, and you are quite sure that he the “ņam lying, lying-And to you!" she moaned. man, you-that is to say, your father--can give “Oh God! have mercy, for I am the most up everything without a suit. It is useless to miserablo woman in the world !" undertake tho consequences of a misfortuno Giovanni ant still, resting his chin upon his which may never occur. It would be reckless hand, and staring at the fire. His hopes had to resign your inheritance without a struggle rison for a moment, and had fallen again, if when San Giacinto, if he is an honest man, possible, more completely than before. Evory would insist upon thcase being tried in law.” lipe of his strongly-marked face betrayed the « That is true. I will tako your advice. despair that overwhelmed him. And yet he I am so much disturbed about other things that said > Yon 10 SANT' ILARIO CHI, .. I.am inclined to go to all extremes at once. was disagroeable to her hearing, and the house Will you dine with us this evening." she lived in had lost all its old charm for her. I think not. Give me one more day. I shall She would willingly have left Rome to travel be stronger to-morrow. for a year or two rather than continue to inhabit "I have tired you," exclaimed Giovami, in a place so full of painful redolleotions ; she #tone of self-reproach. Corona did not answer would gladly have seen another name upon the the remark, but held out her hand with a gentlo cards she left at her friends' houses---even tho smile. once detested name of Astrardente. Whon she "Good-night, dear," she said. had married Giovanni she had not been conscious Ah almost imperceptiblo expression of pain that she became richer than before. When onio passed quickly over Giovanni's face as he touched had everything, what difference could a foń her fingers with his lips. Then he left the room millions more bring into lifo? It was almost without speaking again. a pity that they could not become poor and be In some respects he was glad that he had obliged to bear together the struggles and induced Corona to express herself. He had no privations of poverty. illusions left, for he knew the worst and under stood that if his wife was ever to love him again there must be a new wooing. It is not necessary to dwell upon what he felt, for in the course of the conversation he had not been able to conceal his feelings. Disappointment had come upon hini CHAPTER XVII. very suddenly, and might have been followed by terrible consequences, had he not foreseen, as in a SAN GIACINTO and Flavia were married on dream of the future, a possibility of winning back | Saturday, the thirtieth of November, thereby Corona's love. The position in which they stood avoiding the necessity of paying a fee for being with regard to each other was only possible united during Advent, much to the satisfaction because they were exceptional people, and hard of Prince Montevarchi. The wedding was a both loved so well that they were willing to do brilliant affair, and if the old princo's hospitality anything rather than forego the hope of loving left something to be desired, the display of again. Another man would have found it hard Jiveries, coaches, and family silver was altogether to own himself wholly in the wrong; a woman worthy of so auspicious an occasion. Èveryless generous would have either pretended su: body was asked, and almost everybody went, cessfully that she still loved, or would not have from the Saracinesca to Anastase Gouache, from acknowledged that she suffered so keenly in Valdarno to Arnoldo Meschini. Even Spicca finding her affection dead. Perhaps, too, if was there, as melancholy as usual, but evidently there had been less frankness there might have interested in the proceedings, la chanced to hcen less difficulty in reviving the old passion, find himself next to Gouache in the crowd. for love has strange ways of hiding himself, and “I did not expect to see you here," he resometimes shows himself in ways even more marked. unexpected. "I have been prescrved from a variety of A profound student of human nature would dangers in order to assist at the ceremony, have scen that a mere return to the habit of answered the Zouave, with a laugh. "At ono pleasant intercourse could not suffice to forge time I thought it inore likely that I should be afresh such a bond as had been broken, where the person of importance at a funoral." two such persons were concerned. Something "So did I. However, it could not be helped." more was necessary. It was indispensable that Spicca did not smile. some new force should come into play, to soften “You seem to regret it,” observed Gouache, Corona's strong nature and to show Giovanni who knew his companion's eccentric nature. in his true light. Unfortunately for theni, such “Only on general principles. For the rest a happy conclusion was scarcely to be expected. am delighted to see you. Come and breakfast Even if the question of the Saracineaca property with me when this affair is over. We will drink were decide against them, an issue which, at to the bappiness of two people who will certainly such a time, was far from certain, they would be very unhappy before long." still be rich. Poverty might have drawn them "Durselves ? together again, but they could not be financially The bride and bridegroom. ruined. Corona would have all her own fortuno, who enter, leave all hope behind !' How can wbile Giovanni was more than well provided people be so foolish as to enter into an engagefor by what his mother had left him. The inent from which there is no issue? The tools blow would tell far more heavily upon Giovanni's are not all dead yet." pride than upon his worldly wealth, severo as "I am one of them,” replied Gouache. the loss must be in respect of the latter. It is “ You will probably have your wish. Pro impossible to say whether Corona might not vidence has evidently preserved you from Ridden have suffered as much as Giovanni himself, had death in order to destroy you by lingering the prospect of such a catastrophe presente torture. Is the wedding-day fixed" itself few weeks earlier. At present it affected I wish it were." her very little. Tho very name of Saracinesca “ And the bride ?" " No. Yes (6 XVW SANT ILARIO 103 "How can I tell?" not at all intimato with the man and had never Do you mean to say that, as an opinion, you heard him express his views so clearly upon any would rather be meried than not? The only subject. Unlike most people, he was not in tho excuse for the folly of marrying is the still least afraid of the melancholy Italian. greater folly of loving a woman enough to marry "From the way you talk," he remarked, her. Of course, a man who is capable of that, is one might almost imagine that you had been capable of anything. Here comes the bride with married yourself." her father. Think of being tied to her until Spicca looked at him with an odd expression, a merciful death Think of being son- in which there was surprise as well as annoyance, in-law to that old man; until heaven shall be and instead of making any answer, crossed him. pleased to remove him. Think of calling that self and knelt down upon the marłye pavement. stout English lady, mother-in-law, until she is (iouache followed his example instinctively. at last overtaken by apoplexy. Think of calling Half an hour later the crowd movod slowly all those relatious brothers and sisters, Ascanio, out of the church, and those who had carriages Onorato, Andrea, Isabella, Bianca, Faustina! waited in the huge vestibule while the long line It is a day's work to learn their names and of equipages moved up to the gates. Gouache titles. She wears a veil--to hide her satisfaction escaped from Spicca in the hope of getting a a wreath of orange flowers, artificial, too, sight of Faustina before she drove away with made of paper and paste and wire, symbols of her mother in one of the numerous Montevarchi innocenco, of course, pliable and easily patched coaches. Sant'Ilario and Corona were standing together. She looks down, lest the priest should by one of the pillars, conversing in low tones. see that her eyes aro laughing. Her father “Montevarchi looked as though he knew it,” whispering words of comfort and encouragement said Giovanni. into her ear. Mind your expression, he is "What?" asked Corona, quietly. saying, no doubt..-' you must not look as though "That his daughter is the future Princess you were being sacrificed, nor as though you Saracinesca." were too glad to be married, for everybody is • It remains to be seen whether he is right." watching you. Do not say, I will, too loudly Gouache had been pushed by the crowd into nor inaudibly cither, and remember that you one of the angles of the pilaster while the two are my daughter.' Very good advice. Now speakers stood beforo one of the four pillars of she kneels down and he crosses to the other which it was built up. The words astonished side. She bends her head very low. She is him so much that he forced his way out until looking under her elbow to see the folds of her he could see the Princess of Sant'Ilario's train. You sec- --- she moves her heel to make beantiful profile dark against the bright light the gown fall better--I told you so. A pretty of the street. She was still speaking, but he figure, all in white, before the great altar with could no longer hear her voice ; some acoustic the lights, and the priest in his robes, and the peculiarity of the columus had in all probability organ playing, and that Hercules in a black been the mcans of conveying to him the coat for a husband. Now she looks up. The fragments of conversation he had overheard. rings, are there on the gold salver upon the Avoiding recognition, he slipped away through altar. She has not seen hers, and is wondering an opening in the throng and just succeeded whother it is of plain gold, or a band of in reaching the gate as the first of the Montediamonds, like the Princess Valdarno's. Now varchi carriages drew up. The numerous then--ego conjungo vos--the devil, my friend, menbers of the family were gathered on the it is an awful sight! edge of the crow), and Gouache managed to Cynic !” muttered Gouache, with a sup. speak a few words with Faustina. pressed laugh.. The girl's delicato face lighted up when she There---it is done now, and she is alreadly was conscious of his presence, iind she turned thinking what it will be liko to dine alone with her eyes lovingly to his. They met often now him this evening, and several thousand evenings in public, though San Giacinto did his best to hereafter. Cynic, you say? There are no more keep theni apart. cynics. They are all married, and must turn Here is a secret, aid Gounche in a quick stoics if they can. Let us be off. No--there is whisper. "I have just heard Sant'Ilario tell- Well then, go down on your knces and ing his wife that your sister is the futuro pray for their souls, for they are in a bad case. Princess Saracinesca. What does it mean?" Marriage is Satan's hot-houso for poisonous Faustina looked at him in the utmost astonishweeds. If anything*tan mako a devil of an ment. It was clear that she knew nothing of innocent girl it is marriage. If anything can the matter at present. turn an honest man into a fiend it us matri. “You must have heard wrong," she answered. tióny. Pray for them, poor crentures, if there “Will you come to early mass to-morrow.!" is any available praying power left in you, he asked hurriedly, for he had no time to lose. after attending to the wants of your own soul, "I will try--if it is possible. It will be easier which, considering your matrimonial intentions, now that San Giacinto is to be away. He knows I should think very improbablo." everything, I am sure. Gouache looked at his companion curiously, "San Giacinto?" It was Gouacho's turn to for Spicca'n yirulence astonished him. He was be astonished. But explanations were in possible. ing8s.

BO 104 SANT' ILARIO .CH. ---- in such a crowd, and Faustina was already highly to labour for those we love, for those inoving away: I with whom we share our dearest affections. Say nothing about what I have told you, I am now about to commuricate to you an affair Anastase whispered as she left him. Sho bowed of the highest importance, which, when brought her lovely head in silence and passed on. to a successful termination will exercise & And so the Marchese di San Giacinto took tremendous influence over all your life. Let me Flavia Montevarchi for his wife, and all Romo say beforehand, howover, and lest you should looked on and smiled, and told imaginary stories suspect mo of any unworthy motives, that of his fornier life, acknowledying, nevertheless, I expect no thanks, nor any share in the immense that Flavia had done vory wellthe stock riumph in store for you. Do not be surprised phrase.--'since there was no doubt whatever but f I use somewhat strong languago on such an that the gigantic bridegroom was the cousin of occasion. I have examined everything, preserved the Saracinesca, and rith into the bargain. verything, taken the best legal advice; and Amidst all the gossip and small talk no one, consulted those without wlose spiritual counsel however, was found who possessed enough I enter upou no weighty undertaking. My dear imagination to foretell what in reality was very son, you, and none other, are the real and rightful inninent, namely, that the Marchese might Prince Saracinesca. turn out to be the prince. The climax to the long preamble was The last person to suspect such a revelation unexpected that San Giacinto uttered a loud was San Giacinto himself. He had inileed at exclamation of surprise. one time entertained some hopes of pushing "Do not be amazed at what I have told you, forward a claim which was certainly founded said Montevarchi. “The documents upou which upon justice if not upon good law ; but since the claims of the Saracinesca rest were drawn. Montevarchi had kept tho documents relating up by a wise man. Although he had not at that to the case for many days, and had then inie any intention of marrying, he was aware returned them without mentioning the subject that with Heaven all things are possible, and to his future son-in-law, the latter had thought introduced a clause to the effect that if he should it wiser to let the matter rest for the present, marry and leave heirs direct of his body, the shrewdly suspecting that such a man as Monte. whole deed was to bo null, void, and ineffectual. varchi would not readily let such an opportunity I do not know enough of your family history to of enriching his own daughter slip through his understand why neither he nor his son nor his fingers. It has been already seen that Monte grandson ever marlo any attempt to recover their varchi purposely prevented San Gincinto from birthright, but I know enough of law to affirm seeing the papers in order that he might be in that the clause is still good. It is identical"-- reality quite innocent of any complicity in the the prince smiled pleasantly—“it is identical in matter when the proceedings were instituted, a the original and in the copy preserved in the point very important for the success of the suit. Chancery archives. In my opinion you have Half an hour afterwards San Giacinto was only to present the two documents before a closeted with the old prince in the latter's competent court in order to obtain a unanimous study, which looked more than usually dismal verdict in your favour." by contrast with the brilliant assemblage in the San Giacinto looked hard from under his drawing-rooms. overhanging brows at the old man's keen face. "Now that we are alone, my dear son," began Then, suddenly, he struck his licavy fist into the Montevarchi, who for a wonder had not changed palm of his left hand, and rose from his chair, his coat since the ceremony, now that you are a gleam of savage triumph in his eyes. For some really niy son, I have an important communica. tinie he paced the room in silence. tion to make." "I wish Giovanni no ill, nor his father either," San Ciacinto sat down, and anyone might he said at last. have seen from the expression of his square juw “Heaven forbid !” excluified Montevarchf, and determined month that he was prepared for crossing hiniself. “And besides, as the property. battle. He disl not trust his father-in-law in the is all yours, that would be of no use. least, and woull not have been şurprised if he San Giacinto stared a minute, and then hisse had made an attempt to get back the money deep voice rang out in a hearty laugh. He had he had paid into the lawyer's hands as Flavia's an intimate conviction that his devout father-indowry. But Sarı Giacinto had taken all pre. law was quite tapablo, not only of wishing evil cantions, and knew very well that he could not to his neighbour, but of putting his wishes into cheated Montevarchi continued in a bland execution if his interests could be advanced voice. thereby. “I have kept the matter as a surprise for you," “N&," he said, when his merriment had subhe said. You have, of course, been very busy sided, “I wish then no ovil. But, after all, Juring these last weeks in making your prepara- they must know what is contained in the papers tions for the solemn ceremony at which we have they have in their possession, and they must just assisted. It was therefore impossible for know that I am the prince, and that they have you to attend to the multifarious details which kept me out of my inheritance. I will go and it has leon my care, my privilege, to sift and tell them so. Since there is no doubt about the examing. For it is a privilege we shop kwalue caso, I do not see why I should wait.".

XVII SANT' ILARIO 105 86 “Nor I," answered Montevarchi, with the air et quce sunt Dei, Deo! Would that we cocid all of a man who has done his part and expects live by that rule !" others to finish what he has begun. " To Saracinesca, what is his, and to San “It is fortunate that we have decided to go Giacinto that which belongs to hir---that is to Frascati instead or making a journey to the what you mean?" end of Europe. 'Not but that, as I have never Yes, my good son. I am glad to see that seen Paris, I would have liked the trip well you understand Latin. It does you credit that enough." amidst the misfortunes of your early life you You will find Paris pleasantor when you should have so improved yourself as to possess are Prince Saracinesca." the education necessary to the high rank you “That is true," replied San Giacinto, thought.. are about to assumo. I tell you frankly that, in fully. There was the deep light of anticipated' spite of your personal qualities, in spite of the triumph in his eyes. “Will you see that the great name and possessions which will soon be proper preliminary steps are taken ?” he asked yours, if I had not distinguished in you that presently: refinement and instruction without which no “I will engage lawyers for you. But you gentleman is worthy of the name, I would not will have to do the rest yourself. The lawyers havo bestowed upon you the hand of that sweet might go out and talk it over with you in creature whom I have cherished as a flower Frascati. After all, you are a young man of in the house of my old age.” good sense, and will not have any sentiment San Giacinto had made a study of old about being alone with your wife.” Montevarchi during a month past, and was not “For tho matter of that, I anticipate much in the least deceived by his rounded periods and pleasure in tlie society of my wife ; but when well expressed moral sentiments. But he smiled There is so much meat boiling, somebody must and bowed, enjoying the idea of attributing such match tho pot, as we used to say in Naples. flattery to himself in proportion as he felt that I am a practical man, you know." ho was unworthy of it. He had, indeed, clono 'Ah, that is a great quality, one of the his best to acquire a certain amount of instruc. very greatest! If I had spent my life in a per- tion, as his father-in-law called it, and his tastes petual honeymoon with the princess, Casa were certainly not so coarse as might have been Montevarchi would not be what it is, my son. expected; but he was too strong a man to be I have always given my best attention to the easily deceived concerning his own powers, and affairs of my household, and I expect that you he knew well enough that he owed his success to will continue the tradition." his fortune. He saw, too, that Montevarchi, in "Never fear! If, by continuing the tradition, giving him Flavia, had foreseen tho possibility you moan that I should get what is mine, I will of his claiming tho rights of his cousins, and if not disappoint you. Can you tell me when the he hard not been thoronghly satisfied with his case can be. ried, and in what court it will be choice, he would have now felt that he had heard ?" been deceived. He had no regrets, however, for “With my influence," replied Montevarchi, he felt that even had lie already enjoyed the "the case may be put through at once. A month titles and wealth he was so soon to claim, he will suffice for the preliminaries, ir day for the would nevertheless have chosen Flavia for his hearing. Everything is settled at once by the wife. Of all the young girls he had seen in exhibition of the clocuments, which provide for Rome she was the only one who really attracted you in the most explicit terms. You can come him ; a fact due, perhaps, to her being more in from the country and see them for yourself if natural than the rest, or at least more like what you please. But I consider that quite unneces- he thought a woman should naturally be. His sary. The lawyers will settle overything.' rough nature would not havo harmonised with s Pariion iny curiosity, but I would like to Faustina's character; still less could he have know why you thought it best not to tell me understood and appreciated a woman like qiything of the matter until now. Corona, who was, indeed, almost beyond the 'My dear son, you wero so busy with the comprehensionofGiovanni, herown husband. San preparations for your marriage, and the ques- Giacinto was almost a savage, compared with tions involved seemed at first so doubtful that the young men of the class to which he now "I thought it best not to troublo you with them. belonged, and there was something wild and Then, when I knew the whole truth, the time half-tamed in Flavia Montovarchi which had was so near that I preferred to give you the fascinated him from the first, and held him by information as a sort of weddling-present. that side of his temperament by which alone "A magnificent one ingoed, for which I cannot savages are governed. find words to express my gratitude." Had the bringing of the suit been somewhat “No, no! Do not talk of gratitude. I feel hastened it is not impossible that San Giacinto that, I am fulfilling a sacred duty in restoring to and his wife might havo driven up to the the fatherless his birthright. "It is an act of ancient towers of Saracinesca on that Saturday divine, justice for the execution of which I havo afternoon, as Giovanni and Corona lad done on been chosen as the humble instrument. Do your their wedding-day two years and a half earlier. duty by my dear daughter, and render your As it was, they were to go out to Frascati to gratitude to heaven-que sunt Ceraris, Cirsari, spend a week in Montevarchi's villa, as the . » - : 106 SANT ILARIO prince and princess and all their niarried of Aquila, with its white-washed walls children had done before them. enclosure and its appalling monuments and "Eh ! , what a satisfaction !" exclaimed mortuary èmblems. Poor Felico ! She had Flavia, with a sigh of relief as the carriage buen a good wife, and he had been a good rolled out of the deep archway ander the palace. husband to her. She was stich a simple creature Then she laughed a little and looked up at her that he could almost fancy her 'spirit shedding husband out of the corners of her bright black tears of satisfied pride at seeing her Giovanın eyes, after which she produced a very pretty married to & princess, rich and about to be silver scent-hottle which her mother had put metamorphosed into a prince himself. She had into her hand as a parting gift. She looked at known that he was a Marchese of a great. it, turned it round, opened it and at last smelled family, and had often begged him to let her be. the contents. called the Signora Marchesa. But he had Ugh!” she cried, shutting it up quickly always told her that for people in their position and making a wry face" It is full of salts -- it was absurd. They were not poor for their horrible! I thought it was something gool to station ; indeed, they were among the wealthiest smell ! Did she think I was going to faint on of their class in Aquila. He had promised to the way!" assert his title when they should be rich enough, “You do not look like fainting," remarkerl but poor Felice had died too soon. Then had San Giacinto, who looked gigantic in a wide fur come that great day when Giovanni had won in pelisse. He put out his great hand, which the lottery--Giovanni who had never played closed with a sort of rough tenderness over before and had all his life called it a waste of hers, complotely hiding it as well as the smelling- money and a public robbery. But, playing bottlo sho held. "So it is a satisfaction, is it?" once, he had played high, and ali his numbers he asked, with a gleam of pleasure in his deep- had appeared on the following Saturday. Two set eyes. hundred thousand francs in a day! Such luck - If you had been educated under the super. only falls to the lot of men who are born under vision of the eccellentissima cusu Montevarchi,, destiny. Giovanni had iong known what he you would understand what a blessed institution should do if he only possessed the capital. The marriage is ! You-what shall I call you --' winnings were paid in cash, and in a fortnight your name is Giovanni, is it not ? he had taken up a government contract in the “ Yes-Giovanni. Do you like the name ?" province of Aquila. Then cane another and “No it reminds me of the head of John the another. Everything turned to gold in his Baptist. I will call you--let me see-Nino. hands, and in two years he was a rich man. Yes--that sounds so small, and you are so Alone in the world, with his two little boys, immensely big: You are Nino, in future. I am and possessed of considerable wealth, the longing glad you are big. I do not like little men. .” She hall come over him to take the position to which nestled close to the giant, with a laugh that he had a legitimate right, a position which, he pleased hin. supposed, would not interfere with liis increasing San Giacinto suddenly found that he was very his fortune if he wished to do so. He had left much more in love than he had supposed. His the children under the supervision of old Don life had been full of contrasts, but this was the Paolo, the curate, and had come to Rome, where greatest which had yet presented itself. He' lie had lodged in an obscuro hotel until he had remembered a bright summer's morning a few fitted himself to appear before his consins as years earlier, when he had walked back from a gentleman. His grave tempor, indomitable the church in Aquila with Folice Baldi by his energy, and natural astuteness had done the side. Poor Felice! She had worn a very pretty rest, and fortune lrad crowned all his efforts. black silk frock with a fine gold chain around The old blood of the Saracinesca had grown her neck, and a veil upon her head, for she was somewhat coarse by the aclmixture of a stream not of the class “ that wear hats," as they say very far from blue; but if it had lost in some in Rome. But she had forced her stout hands respects it liad gained in others, and the type into gloves, and Giovanni the innkceper had was not wholly low. The broad-shouldereid, been somewhat proud of her larlylike appear. dark-complexioned giant was not altogether Her face was very red, and there were unworthy of the ancient name, and hic knew it tears of pleasure and tinirlity in her eyes, which as his wife nestled to his side. He loved the he remembered very well. It was strango that wild- element in her, but most of all he loved she, too, should have been proud of her husband's the thoroughbred stamp of her face, the delicacy size and strength. Perhaps all women were of her small hands, tho aristocratic ring of her very much alike. How well he remembered laughter, for those all told him that, after three the wedding collation, the little yollow cakes generations of obscurity, he had risen again to with a drop of hard pink sugar in the middle of the level whence his fathers had fallen. each, the bottles of sweet cordial of various Tho'change in his lifo became very dear to flavours--cinnamon, clove, anisced, and the him, as all these things passed quickly through like the bright red japanned tray, and the his mind; and with the consciousness of vivid cheaply ynudy plates wheroon were painted all contrast came the certainty that he loved Flavia manner of impossible fowers. O far better than he had believed possible Felice was dead, buried in tho campo santo “And what shall I call you?” he askuil, ance.

.. >> SANT İLÅRTO Top rather bluntly. He did not quito know whether much prettier--I heard her say, so when I was it would be wise to use any term of endearment behind the curtains. Why did you not find it or not. Indeed, this was the weak point in his out ever so long ago ? Think what a wedding experience, but he supplemented the deficiency we should have had, just like the Sant' Ilario's ? by a rough tenderness which was far from dis- But it was very fine after all, and of course Agreeable to Flavia. thore is nothing to complain of. Evviva! Anything you like, dear,” she answerul. Evviva! . Do give me one of those cigarettes-- San Giacinto felt the blood rush to his head I never sinoked in my life, and I am so happy with pleasure as he heard the epithet. that I know it will not hurt me !" "Anything?” he asked, with a very unwonted San Giacinto had his case in his hand, and tremor in his voice. laughed as he presented it to her. Qujet as he Anything provided you will love me,” she was in his manner he was fur the happier of the replied. He thought he had never seen such two, as he was far more capable of profound wicked, fascinating eyes. He drew her face to feeling than the wild girl who was now his wife. his and looked into thoni a moment, his own He was glad, too, to see that she was so blazing suddenly with a passion wholly new to thoroughly delighted, for he know well enough him. that even after he had gained the suit ho would I will not call you anything --instead of need the support of an ambitious woman to calling you, I will kiss you-so-is it rou better strengthen his position. He did not believe than any name?” that the Saracinesca would submit tamely to A deep blush spread over Flavia's face and such a tremendous shock of fortune, and he then subsided suddenly, leaving her very pale. foresaw that their resentment would probably For a long time neither spoke again. He shared by a great number of their friend Did your father tell you the news before we Flavia looked prettier than ever as she put left ? " asked San Giacinto at last, wlien they the bit of rolled paper between her red lips were rolling over the Campagna along the Via and puffed away with an energy altogether Latina. unnecessary. He would not have believed that, “No---what?" being already go brilliant and good to see, 'It is somewhat remarkable news. If you a piece of unexpected good news could have lent are afraid of fainting," he added, with rough her expression so much more brightness. She humour,“ hold your bottle of salts ready. was positively radiant, as she looked from his Flavia looked up uncasily, wondering whether eyes at her little cigarette, and then, looking there were anything wrong about San Giacinto. back to him again, laughed and snapped her She knew very well that her father had been small gloved fingers. glad to get rid of her. 1o you know,” she said presently, with I am not, San Giacinto after all," he said a glance that completed the conquest of San quietly. Flavia started and drew back. Giacinto's heart, "I thought I should be Who are you then ?" she asked quickly. dreadfully shy with you-at first--and I am “I am Prince Saracinesca, and you are the not in the least ! I confess, at the very moment princess. He spoke very calmly, and watched when you were putting the ring on my finger her face to see the effect of the news. I was wondering what we should talk about “ I wish you were !" she exclaimed nervously. luring the drive." Sho wondered whether he was going mad. “You did not think we should have such an “Thero scems to be no doubt about it,” he agreeable subject of conve versation, did you !" answered," your father informed me of the No--and it is such a pretty ring! I always fact as a wedding-present. He has examinest wanted a band of diamonds-plain gold is so all the papers and will send the lawyers out to common. Did you think of it yourself or did Frascati to prepare the case with me. someone else suggest tho idea ?” He told her the whole story in detail. As ho Castellani said it was old-fashioned," jroceeded, a siifgular expression came into answered San Giacinio," but I preferred it." Flavia's face, and when he had finished she “Would you have liked one, too?" broke out into voluble expressions of joy. It would be ridiculous for a man. "I always know that I was born to be a “ You have very gooil taste," remarked princessI mean a real one! How could I be Flavia, eying him critically. " Where did you anything else? Oh! I am so happy, and you get it? You used to keep a hotel in Aquila, did are such a darling to bo a prince! And to think you not ?" that if papa had not discovered the papers, San Giacinto had long been prepared for the those horrid Sant Ilario peoplo would have had question and did not wince nor show the everything. Princess Saracinesca! Eh, but slightest embarrassment. He smiled calmly as how it sounds! Almost as good as Orsini, and he answered her. nuuch nicer with you, you great big, splendid “You would hardly have called it a hotel, it lion !: Why did they not call you Leone? It is was a country inn. I dare say I shall nanage too good to be true!. And I always hated Saracinesca all the better for having kept Corona, over since I was a little girl and she dhostolry.” wag the Astrardente, because she used to say “Of course. Oh, I have such a delightful I did not bhave well and that Faustina was idea! Let us go to Aquila and keep the hotel 66 "No. 1 108 SANT' ILARIO CH 1 together. It would be such fun! You could uncomfortable. Moreover, he had succeeded of say you had married a littlo shopkeeper's late in making Flavia accompany her to early daughter in Rome, you know. Just for a mass on Sunday mornings on preterrco of his month, Ninom-clo let us do it! It would be wishing to see Flavia wielout the inevitablo such a change after society, and then we would supervision of the old princess. The plan was go back for the Carnival. Oh, do!” ingenious ; for Faustina, instead of meeting “But you forget the lawsuit- Gouache, was thus obliged to play cHaperon " That is true. Besides, it will be just as while her sister and San Giacinto talked to much of a change to bo Princess Saracinesca. their hearts' content. He was a discreet man, But we can do it another time. I would like however, and Flavia was ignorant of the fact so much, to go about in an apron with a reel that Faustina and Anastaso had sometimes met cotton handkerehief on my hend and see all the in the same way, and would have met frequently queer people! When are the lawyers coming ?" had they not been prevented. The young girl During the week, I suppose. was clever enough to see why San Giacinto acted * There will be a fight," said Flavia, her face as he did; sho understood that he was an growing more grave. “What will Sant' Ilario ambitious man, and that, as he was about to and his father say and clo? I cannot believe ally hiniself with her family, he would naturally t'iat it will all go so smoothly as you think. disapprove of her attachment to Gouache. Now i'hey do not look like people who would give up that he'was gone, she wondered whether he had easily what they have had so long. I suppose devised any steps which would take effect after they will be quite ruined.” his departure. I do not know. Corona is rich in her own Faustina was quite as much in love as right, and Sant'Ilario has his mother's fortune. Gouache himself, and spent much time in Of course, thoy will be poor compared with their calculating the chances of a favourable issue present wealth. I am sorry for them-- from the situation in which she found herself. “Sorry?" Flavia looked at her husband in Life without Anastase was inipossible, but the some astonishment. “It is their own fault. probabilities of her becoming his wife in the Why should you be sorry?" ordinary course of events were very few, as far “It is not exactly their fault. I could hardly is sho was able to judge, and she hasi moments of have expected them to come to me and inform extreme tlepression, during which she despaired me that a mistake had been made in the last of cverything: The love of a very young girl century, and that all they possessed was mine." may in itself be both strong and enduring, but *All they possessed !" echoed Flavia, thought it generally has the effect of making her prone fally. “What a wonderful idea it is!” to extremes of hope and fear, uncertain of her. Very wonderful," assented San Giacinto, self, vacillating in her ideas, and unsteady in the who was thinking once more of his former pursuit of the smaller ends of life. Throw two poverty equal weights into the scales ot' a perfectly The carriage rolled on and both were silent adjusted balance, the arm will swing and move for some time, absorbed in dreaming of the erratically many times before it returns to its greatness which was beiore them in the near normal position, although there is a potential future, San Giacinto enun:rating in his mind equilibrium in the machine which will shortly the titles and estates which were soon to be his, insert itself in absoluto tranquillity. while Flavia imagined herself in Corona's place Love in a very young person is rarely interestin Rome, grown sudilenly to be a central figure ing, unless it is attended by heroic or tragic in society, leading and organising the brilliant circumstances. Human lifo is very like the amuseinents of her world, and above all, rejoicing i game of chess, of which the openings are so in that lavish use of abundant money which had limited in number that a practised player knows alway soomed to her the most desirable of all them all by heart, whereas the subsequent moves enjoyments. are susceptible of infinite variation. Almost all young people pass through tue early stages oi existence by some known ganbit, which has. always a definito influence upon their later CHAPTER XVIII lives, but never determines the latter entirely... The gaine is played between humanity on the FACSTINA MONTEVARCHI was delighted when one side and the unforeseen on the other; but her sister was at last married and out of the that which can really not be foretold in some house. The two had always been very good measure rarely presents itself until tho first friends, but Faustina felt that she had an enemy effects of love have been felt, a period which, in San Giaciuto and was relieved when he was to continne the simile, may be compared in gone. She had no especial reason for hoe sua- chess to the operation of castling. Then comes picions, since he treated her with the same quiet the first crisis, and the merest tyro knows how and amicable politeness which he showed to the much may depend upon whethor he castles on rest of the household; but her perceptions were the king's side or on the queen’s. extraorrlinarily true and keen, apil she hauri Now the nature of Faustina's first love was noticed that he watched her whenever Gouache such as to make it probable that it would end wus in the room in a way that made her very in some uncommon way. There was something 66 XVIII SANT' ILARIO .it 109 * 1 “Oh! fatal in the suddenness with which her affection “Now do tell me all about the Snooks and had grown and had upset the balance of her Montmorency divorce," says ' Lady Smythjudgment. It is safe to say that not one young Tompkins with a sweetly engaging smile, as girl in a million wor!I have behaved as she had she holds out her hand. done on the night of the insurrection in Rome ; I did not know there was such a case not one in a hundred thousand would, in her I don't know the people," you answer. position, have fallen in love with Gouacho. "Oh! I thought, of course, you knew all The position of the professional artist and of about it," Lady Smyth-Tompkins replies, and the professional man of letters in modern her features turn to stone as she realiscs that European society is ill definecl. As a man who you do not know everybody, and leaves you to has been brought up in a palace would un- your own reflections. doubtedly betray his breeding sooner or later if O Thackeray, suobissme maxime! How well transported to live amongst a gang of thieves, you knew them! so a man who has grown to years of discretion There are no snobs among the Latin races, in the atmosphere of studios or in the queer but there is a worse animal, the sycophant, company from which most literary men have descended directly from the dinner-tables of sprung, will inevitably, at one time or another, ancient Rome. In old-fashioned houses there offend the susceptibilities of that portion of are often several of them, headed invariably by humanity which calls itself society. I is in- the "giornalo ambulante," the walking newspossible that it should be otherwise. Among paper, whose business it is to pick up itenis of a set of people whose profession it is to do news during the day in order to detail them to always, and in all things, precisely what their the family in the cvoning. Thero is a certain neighbours do, the man who makes his living wld princess who sits every evening with her by doing what other people cannot do, must needlework at the head of a long table in the always be a marked figure. Look at modern (lismal drawing-room of a gigantic palace. On socioty. It cannot toil nor spin ; it can hardly each side of the board are seated the old prut together ten wordin a grammatical parasites, the family doctor, the family chaplain, sequence. But it can clothe itselt. The man the family lawyer, the fanıily librarian, the of letters can both toil and write good English, peripatetic news-sheet and the rest. but his taste in tailoring frequently leaves much "I have been out to-day,” says her excellency. to be desired. If he would put himself in the Al! Dear me! in this weather! hands of Poole, and hold his tongne, he might Hear what the princess says! The princess has almost pass for a member of society: But he been out!” The chorus comes up the table, all must needs talk, and his speech bowrayeth him the answers reaching her cars at once. jor a Galilean. There are wits in society, both “And I saw, as I drove by, the new monuinany and keen, who can say something original, ment! What a ridiculous thing it is.” Cutting and neatly turneel, upon almost any “Ho! ho! ho! Hah! hal! hah! Dear me ! subject, with an easy superiority which makes. What a monument ! What fine taste the the hair of the learned man stand erect upon princess has ! Hear what the princess thinks his head. The chief characteristic of him who of the monument ! lives by his brains is, that ho is not only able “ If you will believe it, the bronze horse has to talk consecutively upon some subjects, but a crooked leg." that he actually does so, which, in society, is “ He ! he! he! Hi! hi! hi! Dear me ! accounted a monstrous crime against manners. A crooked leg! How the princess understands Lot hini write what he wants to say, and print horses ! The princess saw that ho had a crooked it; society will either not understand him at leg !" all, or will read his works with a dictionary in And so on, for a couple of hours, in the cold, the secrecy of its own chamber. But if he will dimly-lighted room, until her excellency has had Joli his tongue in public, society will give him enough of it and rises to go to bed, when the a cup of tea and iroat him almost like a human parasites all scuttle away and quarrel with each being for tho sake of being said to patronise other in the street as they walk home. Night letters. Anyono who likes society's tea may after night, to decades of years, the old lady drink his fill of it in consideration of wearing recounts the little journal of her day to the a good coat and keeping his wits to himself, admiring listeners, whoso chorus of approval but he will not succeed in marrying any of is porformed daily with the same unvarying society's sisters, cousins or a&nts without a regularity. The times are changing now, the severo struggle. prince is not so casily amused, and the sycophant Anastase Gouache di not quite understand has accordingly acquired the art of amusing ; this. He sometimes found himself amidst a group but there still survive some wonderful monuof people who woro freely discussing somo person ments of the old school. unknown to him. On such occasions he held his Anastase Gouache was a man of great talent peace, innocently supposing that his ignorance and of rising fame, but, like other men of his was without any importanco whatsoever, among stamp, he preferred to believe that he was & set of men and wonien with whom not to know received on a friendly footing for his own sake every detail concerning everyone else is to be rather than on account of his reputation. In little better than an outcast. his own eyes, ho was, as a nian), as good as those 66 " He SANTI ILARIO with whom he associated, and had es much Then there is no time to be lost," said Gright to make love to Faustina Montevarchi as Gouache at last. "I will go to your father to the young. Frangipani, for whom her father morrow morning. destinédo her. Faustina, on her part, was too "Oh-don't, don't!" cried Faustina, sudi young to appreciate the real strength of the denly, with an expression of intenso anxiety. pööjudiccs by which she was surrounded. She ** Why not ?" The artist seemed very much could not understand that, although the man surprised. she loved was a gentleman, young, good-looking, 67 You do not know him! You do not know successful, and not without prospects of acquiring what he will say to you! You will be angry a fortune, lre was yet wholly ineligiblo as and will lose your temper--he will be cruel and a husband. Had she seen this ever so clearly, will insult you, and you will resent it--theu: it might ilave mado but very little diflerence in I shall never see you again. You do not her feelings; but she did not see it, and the dis- know-"? paraging remarks aboud Anustase, which she * This is something now," said Gouacho. occasionally heard in her own family, seemed to “How can you be sure that he will receive me her utterly unjust as well as quite unfounded. so badly? Have your people talked about me.? The result was that the two young people were After all, I am an honest man, and though preparing for themselves one of those terrible I live by my profession I am not poor. It is disappointments of which the consequences are true, I am not such a match for you as sonotimes felt during a score of years. Both, Frangipani. Tell me, cdo they abuse me at your however, were too much in love to bear suspenso lavuse?" very long without doing something to precipitate! “No--what can they say, except that you the course of events, and whenever they had the are an artist? That is not abuse, nor calumny." chance they talked the matter over and built. “It depends upon how it is said. I suppose wonderful castles in the air. it is San Giacinto who says it." Gouache's face About a fortnight after the marriage of San Clarkened. Giacinto they were scated together in a room “San Giacinto has guessed the truth," full of people, late in the afternoon. They had answered Faustina, shaking her head. been talking for some time upon indifferent knows that we love each other, and just now subjects. When two persons meet, who are he is very powerful with niy father. It will be very much in love with each other, and waste worso if he wins the suit and is Prince their time in discussing topics of little impor. Saracinesca." tance, it may be safely predicted that something Then that is another reason for acting uü unusual is about to occur. Faustina--you followed me once-- will “I cannot endure this suspense any longer,“ you not go with me, away, out of this cursed said Gouache at last. city? I will ack for you first. I will behnve Nor I," answered Faustina. honourably. But if he will not cousent, what “It is of no use to wait any more. Either is there left for 119 to do? Can we live apart? your father will consent or he will not. I will Can you marry Frangipani? Have not many ask him and know the worst. people done beforo what we think of doing? Is And if it is the worst - what then The it wrong? Heaven knows, I make no pretence young girl turned her eyes towards Anastase to sentity. But I would not have you do any. with a frightened look. thing what shall I say? Anything against “Then we must manayo without his con your conscience." There was a shade of bittersent. ness in the laugh that accompanied tho last “How is that possible." words. “It must be possible," replierl Gouache. "If " You do not know what things he will say," you love me it shall be possible. It is only repeated Faustina, in despairing tones. a question of a little courage and goodwill. * This is absurd," said Gouache. "I can bear But, after all, your father may consent. Why anything he can say well enough. He is air should he pot?" old man and I am a young one, and have no " Because _” she liesitated a little. intention of taking offence. He'may say what "Because I am not a Kornan prince, yoou le pleases, call me a villain, a brigand--that is Anastase glanced quickly at her. your favourite Italian oxpression- a thick, a liar, He wants mo to marry Frangipani." anything he pleases. I will not bo angry. Why did you never tell nie that! There shall be in.) violence. But I cannot enduro "I did not know it when we last met. Hy this state of things any longer. I must try my mother told me of it last night.' “Is the match settled ?" askerl Gouache. Ilu "Wait a little longer," auswered Faustina, in was very pale. an imploring tone. "Wait until the suit is * I think it has been spoken of,” answered decided." Fauslina in a low voice. She shivered a little " In order to let San Ciacinto get oven more: and presseri her hands together. · There was influence than he has now? It would be a short silence, during weich Auastase did not a mistake--you almost suid so yourself take his eyes from her, while she looked down, moment ago. Besides, the suit may last for. avoiding his look. years.' once. meal). "No. luck."

***** SANT ILARIO ILI "It will not last a fortnight." it would have been wholly impossible, fer it « Poor Sant'Ilario !” exclaimed Gouache. would have seemedl. cowardly. Now that He "Does everybody know about it?" had distinguished himself and had beon wounded "I suppose so. But nobody speaks of it. We in the causo, the thing night-be done without all feel dreadfully about it, except my father dishonour, but it would involve a species of selfand San Giacinto and Flavia." abasement to which he was not prepared to If he is in a good humour, this is the very submit. On the other hand, to wait until his time to go to him. term of service should have expired was to risk "Please, please do not insist!” Faustina loving Faustina altogether. He knew that she was evidently very much in carnest. With the loved him, but he was experienced enough to instinct of a very young wonian, she clung to the know that a young girl is not always able half happiness of the present, which was so to bear the pressure exercised upon her when much greater than anything she had known marriage is concerned. In Rome, and especially before in her life. But Gouachu would not be at that time, it was in the power of parents satisfied. to liso the most despoiic means for subduing the "I must know the worst,” he said again, as will of their children. There was even a law they parted. by which a disobedient son or daughter could * But this is so niuch better than the worst,” bo imprisoned for a considerable length of time answered Faustina, sadly. provided that tho father could prove that “Who risks nothing, wins nothing,"actorted his child had rebelled against his just will. the young man, with a bright smilo. Thongh Gouache was not aware of this, the In spite of his hopefulness, however, he hai fact that a similar institution existed in his received a severe shock on hearing tho news of own country made him suspect that it was to the intended match with young Frangipani. be found in Rome also. Supposing that Monte- We had certainly never expected to find himself varchi refused to accept him for a son-in-law, the rival of such a suitor, and his sense of and that Faustina, on the other hand, refused possibility, if man may be said to possess such to marry young Frangipani, it was only too à faculty, was staggered by the idea. le probable that she might be lockerl up-in a suddenly awakened to a true understanding of luxuriously furnished cell of course-to reflect his position in Roman society, and when he con-' upon the error of her ways. It was by no means templated his discovery in all its bearings, his certain that in the face of such humiliation and nerve almost forsook him. When he reinenberec suffering Faustina would continue her resisthis childhood, his youth, and the circunstances ance ; indeed, she could ldly he blamed if she in which he had lived up to a recent tinio, he yielded in the end. BR Rache believed in the found it hard to realise that he was trying to sincerity of her love because the case was his marry such a girl, in spite of her family, and in own; hůd he heard of it in the life of another opposition to such a man as was now brought man he would have laughed at the idea that forward as a match for her. It was not in his a girl of eighteen could be capable of a serious nature, however, to be discouraged in the face passion. of difficulties. He was like a brave man who It is not necessary, however, to enter into an has received a stunning blow, but who continues analysis of the motives and feolings of either to fight until he has gradually regained his Faustina or Avastase. Their connection with position. Gounche could no more have relin- the history of the Saracinesca arose from what quished Faustina than he could have abandoned they did, and not fron the thoughts which a half-finished picturo in which he believed, any prompted their actions. It is suflicient to say more than he haul given up the attempt to break that douache conceived the mul islea of asking away the stones at the Vigna Santucci after he Montevarchi's consent to his marriage and to had received the bullet in his shonlder. He bail explain the inmediato consequences of the step acquired his position in life by indomitable per he took. severanco and hopefulness, and those qualities Matters were rapidly approaching a climax. Would not now ail him, in one of the most San Giacinto harl scen the lawyers at Frascati, critical situations through which he had ever and he had brought his wifo back to Rome very passed. In spite of Frustina's warning and, to soon in order to be on the spot while the case some extent, in spite of his own better judgment, was being prepared. The men of the law he determined to face the old prince at once, declared that the matter was a very simple one and to ask him boldly for his daughter. and that no court could withhold its decision He had spoken cor«fidently to Faustina of a single day after seeing the documents which being married against the will of her father, but constituted the claim. The only point about when he thought over this alternative he recol- which any argument could arise related to tho lected a fact he had almost completely forgotten identity of San Giacinto himself, and no diffiin considering his matrimonial projects. He culty was found in establishing substantial wrigh a soldier, and had enlisted in the Zouaves proof that he was Giovanni Saracinesca and not for a term of years. It was true that by using an impostor. His father and grandfather had the induence he possessed, he might hope to be jealongly kept all the records of themselvos released fron his engagement, but such a course which were necessary, from the marriage certifi. wag most repugnant to him. Beforo Mentana, cate of the origiual Don Leono, who had signed Was every inch SANT ILARIO the del tot. ster of San Giacinto's own that I had never heard that Leone had any bifth. Opple were obtained, properly drawn living descendants, and should therefore have ар and certised, the parish books and of the attached no importance to the word&' if I had fewgajeriment documents which were officially soen them.” preserved in the kingdom of Naples before 1860, "I beliove you," said şam: Giacinto, calinly. and the lawyers declared themselves ready to The old nian's eyes flashed. open the case. Up to this time the strictest “I always take it for granted that I am secrecy was preserved, at the request of San believed," he answered. * Will you give me Giacinto himself. He said that in such an your word that you are what you assert important matter he wished nothing to tran yourself to bo, Giovanni Saracinesca, the greatspire until he was rearly to act; more especially grandson and lawful heir of Leone ?" as the Saracinesca themselves could not be “Certainly. I pledge my honour that I am ;' ignorant of the true state of the case and had no and I, too, expect to be believed by you.” right to receive notice of tho action beforehand. There was something in the tone of the answer As Corona had rorescen, San Giacinto intended that struck a sympathetic cord in Saracinesca's to obtain the decision by means of a perfectly nature. San Giacinto had risen to his feet, and legal trial, and was honestly ready to court there was something in the huge, lean strength inquiry into the rights he was about to assert. of him, in the bold look of his eyes, in the ring When the moment came and all was ready, he of his deep voice, that inspired respoct. Rough went to the Palazzo Saracinesca and asked for he was, and not over refined or carefully trained the prince, who received him in the same room in the ways of the world, cruel perhaps, and in which the two had met when tlo ex-innkeeper overbearing too; but he had made his appearance in Rome nearly three a Saracinesca, and the old man felt it. months earlier. As San Giacinto entered ho “I believe you,” answered the prince. "You felt that he had not wasted his time during that may take possession when you pleaso. I am, short interval. Don Leone, and you are the head of the "I have come to talk with you upon a busi. house." ness which must be unpleasant to you," he He made a gesture full of dignity, as though began. "Unfortunately it cannot be avoided. resigning then and there his name and the house I beg you to believe that it is iny wish to act in which he lived, to hiin who was lawfully loyally and fairly." errtitled to both. The action was magnificent "I hope so," said Saracinesca, bending his and worthy of the nian. There was a superb bushy groy eyebrows and fixing his keen old disregard of consequences in his readiness to eyes upon his visitor. give up everything rather than keep for “You need not doubt it," replieri San Giacinto a moment what was not his, which affected San rather proudly. "You are doubtless acquainteil Giacinto strangely. In justice to the latter it with the nature of the deed by which our great must be remembered that he had not the grandfathers agreed to transfer the titles and faintest idea that he was the instrument of property to the younger of the two. When we a gigantic fraud from which he was to derivo first spoke of the matter I was not aware of the chief advantage. Ho instinctively bowed the existence of a saving clause. I cannot in acknowledgment of his cousin's generous suppose you ignorant of it. That clause provided (couduct. that if Leone Saracinesca married and had a "I shall not take advantage of your magna, lawful heir, the deed should be null and void. ninity," ho said, “ until the law has sanctioned He did marry, as you know. I am his direct my doing so. descendant, and have children of my own by 'As you please,"answered the other. 'I have my first marriage. I cannot therefore allow the nothing to conceal from the law, but I am the clause in question to remain in abeyance prejudiced against lawyers. Do as you think any longer. With all due respect to you, I am best. A family council can settle the matter as obliged to tell you quito frankly that, in law, well as the courts.” I am Prince Saracinesca. " Your confidence in me is gesterous and Having thus stated his position as plainly as noble. I prefer, however, that tho tribunal possible, San Giacinto folded his great hands should examine the matter." upon his knee and leaned against the back of his “As you please,"repeated Saracinesca. There. chair. Saracinesca looked as though ho were was no reason for prolonging an interview about to make some hasty answer, but he con- which could not be agreeable to either party. trolled his intention and rose to his feet. After The old man remained standing. No opposition walking twice up and down the room, he came will be made to the suit," he said. "You will and stood in front of his cousin. simply produce your parers in proper form, and “Let us be plain in what we say,” he began. I will declare myself satisfied.” He held out "I give you my word that, until Montevarchi his harsil. sent back those papers the other day, I did not “I trust you will bear me no ill-will," said know what they contained. I had not read San Giacinto rather awkwardly. them for thirty years, and at that time tho "For taking what is yours and not 'inine ? clause escaped me. I do not remember to have Not in the least. Good evening. noticed it. This may have been due to the fact San Giacinto left the room. When he was * 13 XVIII SANT' ILARIO 113 gono, Saracinesca stood still for a moment, and then sank into a chair. His strong nature had sustained him through the meeting and would CHAPTER XIX sustain him to the end, but he was terribly PRINCE MONTEVARCHI Wits very mugh surprised shaken, and felt a strango sensation of numbness when he was told that Anastase Gouache wished in the back of his head, which was quite new to to see him, and as he was very much occupied him. For some minutes he sat still as though with the details of the suit his first impulse was dazed and only half conscious. Then he rose to decline the visit. Although he had no idea again, shook himself as though to get rid of that matters had already gone so far between a bad dreani and rang tlio bell. Ho sent for the Zouave and Faustina, he was not, however, Giovanni, who appeared inimediately. so blind as the young girl had supposed him to “San Giacinto has been hero," he said quickly. be. Ho was naturally observant, like most men " He is the man. You had hettor tell your who devote their lives to the pursuit of their wife, as she will want to collect hor things own interests, and it had not escaped him before we leave the house." that Faustina and Gouache were very often to Giovanni was staggered by his father's be seen talking together in the world. Had ho impetuosity. He had realised that the danger possessed a sense of humour he might possibly existed, but it had always seemed indefinitely have thought that it would be inexpressibly far renoved. comical if Gouache should take it into his head! “I suppose there will be sorne legal proceedings to fall in love with tho girl; but the Italians before everything is settled," he said with more are not a humorous people, and the idea did calmness than he felt. not suggest itself to the old gentleman. He « What' is that to us? We must gn, soonei consented to receive Gouache because he thought or later." the opportunity would be a good one for reading "And if the courts do not clecide in his the young man a lecture upon the humility of favour, what then?": his station, and upon the arrogance he displayed “There is no doubt about it," answered the in dovoting himself thus oponly to the daughter prince, pacing the room as his excitement of Casa Montevarchi. returned. “ You and I are nobody. We had Good-day, Monsieur Gouache,” he said better go and live in an inn. That man is solemnly, as Anastase entered. “Pray be honest. I hate him, but he is honest. Why do seated. To what do I owe the honour of your you stand there staring at me? Were you no visit?" the first to say that if we are impostors we Anastase had put on a perfectly new uniform should give up overything of our own free-will? for the interview, and his movements were more And now you seem to think that I will fight the than usually alert and his manners a shade more suit! That is your logic! That is all the con- elaborate and formal than on ordinary occasions. sistency you have acquired in your travels ! He felt and behaved as young men of good birth Go and tell your wife that you are nobody, do who are serving their year in the army that I am nobody! Go and tell her to give who, having put on their smartest tunic, hope you a title, a nanie for men to call you by! that in a half light thoy may be taken for Go into the market and see whether you can officers. find a namo for your father! Go and hire “Will you allow me to explain any position & house for us to live in, when that Neapolitan in the first place?” he asked, seating himself devil has brought Flavia Montevarchi to live in and twisting his cap slowly in his hands. the palace where your mother died, where you “Your position ? By all means, if you desire were born-poor Giovanni! Not that I pity you to do so. It is an excellent rule in all discourses any more than I pity myself. Why should I? to put the definition before the argument. You are young and have done this house the Nevertheless, if you would inform me of the honour to spend most of your life out of it. nature of the affair, it might help me to under- But nfter all-roor Giovanni!" stand you better." Saracinesca seized his son's hand and looked “It is very delicate--but I will try to be The young rian's face was per- plain. What I am, I think you know already. foctly calm, almost sereno in its expression of I am a painter and I have been successful. indifference to misfortune. His wholo soul was for the present, I am a Zouave, but my military preoccupied by greater and nobler emotions service does not greatly interfere with ny prothan any which could be caused by worldly loss. fession. We have a good deal of time upon our He had been with C. again, had talked hands. My pictures bring me - larger income with her, and had so that look in her face than I can spend." which he had learned to dread more than ho “I congratulate you," observed Montevarchi, had ever dreaded anything in his life. What opening his small eyes in some astonishment. wag life itself without that which her eyes si'The pursuit of the fine arts is not generally refused? very lucrative. For myself, I confess that I am satisfied with those treasures which my father alias left me. I am very fond of pictures, it is true ; but you will understand that, when a gallery is filled, it is full. You comprehend, anıt into his eyes:

14 GO 114" SANT' ILARIO I am sure. Muchas I might wish to own some But; sy dear Monsieur Gouache, I fear that of the works of the modern French school, the this is quite impossible ! In the first place, my double disadvantage of possessing already so daughter's marriage is already arranged. The many canvases, and tho still stronger considera- negotiations have been procoding for some time tion of my umited fortune--yes, linited, I assure she is to marry Frangipaži-you must have yoaheard it. And, moreover, with all due respect "Pardon me,” interrupted Gouache, whose for the position you have gained by your immense face reddened suddenly, "I had no intention of talent-immense, my dear friend, I am the first proposing to sell you a picture. I am not in the to say it--the instability of human affairs obliges, habit of advertising myself nor of soliciting me to seek for her a fortune, which depends orders for my work." upon the vulgar possession of wealth rather than My car sir !" exclaimed the princo, seeing upon thoso divine gifts of genius with which you that he was on a wrongstack, "have I suggested are so richly endowed.” Such a thing? If my words conveyed the idea, The change from anger to flattery was so pray accept all my excuses. Since you had sudden that Gouache was confounded and could mentioned the subject of art, my thoughts not find words in which to answer what was naturally were directed to my gallery of said to him. Montevarchi's eyes had lost their pictures. I am delighted to hear of your expression of astonishment, and a bland smile success, for you know how much interest we played about the corners of his sour mouth, while all feel in him who was the victim of such an herubbed his bony hands slowly together, nodding unfortanate accident, due doubtless to the care. his head at every comma of his claborate speech. lessness of my mnen. Anastase saw, lowever, that thero was not the Pray (lo not recall that! Your hospitality slightest hopo that his proposal would ever be more than repaid me for the little I suffered. entertained, and by his own sensations he The matter concerning which I wish to speak knew that he had always expected this result:* to you is a yery serious one, and I hope you He felt no disappointment, and it seemed will believe that I have considered it well be- to him that he was in the same position fore taking a step which may at first surprise in which he had been before he had spoken. you. To be plain, I come to ask you to confer On the other hand, he was outraged by the upon me the honour of Donna Faustina Monte- words that had fallen from Montevarchi's lips varchi's hand." in the first moments of anger and astonishment. Montevarchi leaned back in his chair, speech- A painter, a man with a profession, without less with amazement. He scenied to gasp for a name! Gouache was too huinan not to feel breath as his long fingers pressed the green table. the sting of each truth as it was uttered. Не cover before him. His small eyes were wide would have defined himself in very much the open, and his toothless jaw dropped. Gouache same way without the least false pride ; but to feared that he was going to be taken ill. hear his own estimate of himsolc, given by "You!" cried the old man in a cracked voico, another person as the true one, was hard to when he had recovered himself enough to be able bear. A painter, yes--he was proud of it. to speak. A man with a profession, yes--was it not far “Yes," answered Anastase, who was beginning nobler to carn money by good work than to to feel very nervous as he observed the first inherit what others had stolen in former times ? results of his proposal. He had never before A man without a nane was not his own quite realised how utterly absurd the match beginning to be famous, and was it not better to would seem to Montevarchi. “Yes," he re- make the name Gouacho glorious by his own peated. Is the idoa so surprising ? Is it efforts than to be called Orsini because one's inconceivable to you that I should love your ancestors had been fierce and lawless as bears, daughter? Can you not understandor Sciarra because one's progenitor had slappod "I understand that you are wholly mad !” the face of a Pope? Doubtless it was a finer exclaimed the prince, still staring at his visitor thing to be great by one's own efforts in the, in blank astonishment. pursuit of a noble art than to inherit a greatness “No, I am not mand, I love Donna Faus. originally founderl upon a superior rapacity tina and a greater physical strength than had "! You! You dare to love Faustina ! You, characterised the ordinary men of the period. a painter, a man with a profession and with Nevertheless, Gouache know with shame that at nothing but what you earn! You, a Zouave, that moment he wished that his name could be a man without a name, withoutchanged to Frangipani, and the fabrio of his “You are an old man, prince, but the fact of independence, of which he had so long been my having made you an honourable proposition proud, was shaken to its foundations as he does not give you the ri, it to insult me. The realised that in spite of all fame, all glory, all words were spoken in a sharp, determined voice, genius, 'he could never be what the misecly, and brought Montevarchi to his senises. He cowardly, lying old man before him was by was a terrible coward and would rather go to birth-a Roman prince. The conclusion was at a considerable expense than face an angry man. once inexpressibly humiliating and supromely “Insult you, my dear sir ? I would not think ludicrous. He felt himself laughable in his own of it I the answered in a very different tono. eyes, and was conscious that a smile was on his, » .. 6 SANT' ILARIO TIS face, which Montevarchi would not understand. by habit a scrvile attitute of attention, "byt The old gentleman was still talking botraying in his look that he felt himself hig. I cannot tell you," he was saying, “how master's master. much I regret my jotal inability to comply with Montevarchi started as he heard the news.. el request which evidently proceeds from the Then he loaned eagerly across the table, his best motives, I might almost say from the heart fingers as usual slowly scratohing the green itgolf. Alas! my dear friend, we aro not all sloth. "masters of our actions. The cares of a household “Are you quite sure of it ?” he asked in a like mine require a foresight, an hourly atten- rembling voice. Have you got the verdict !" tion; an unselfish devotion which we can only Meschini produced a tattered pocket-book, hope to obtain by constantand drew from it a piece of stamped paper, He was going to say “by constant recourse to which he carefully unfolded and handed to the prayer," but he reflected that Gouache was prince. probably not of a religious turn of mind, and ho There is an attested note of it. See for changed the sentence. yourself." by constant study of the subject. Montevarchi hastily looked over the small Situated as I am, a Roman in the midst of document, and his face flushed slowly till it Romans, I am obliged to consider the traditions was almost purple, while the paper quivered in his of my own people in rospect of all the great hold. It was clear that everything had succeeded affairs of life. Believe me, I entreat you, that, as he had hoped, and that his most sanguine far from having any prejudice against yourself, xpectations were fully realised. His thoughts I should rejoice sincerely could I take you hyuddenly recurred to Gouache, and he laughed the hand' and call you my son. But how can again at the young man's assurance. , I act? What can I do? Go to your own Was Saracinesca in the court ?” he asked country, dear Monsieur Gouache ; think no presently. more of us or of our daughters, marry a woman No. There was no one connected with the of your own nation, and you will not be case except the lawyers on each side. It did disappointed in your dreams of matrimonial not amount to a trial. The Signor Marchese's felicity!' sido produced the papers proving his identity, " In other words, you refuse altogether to and the original deed was subinitted. The listen to my proposal ?" By this time Gouache prince's side stated that his Excellency was. was able to put the question calmly. onvinced of the justice of the claim and would “Alas, yes!” replied the princo, with an air make no opposition. Thereupon the court of mouk regret that exasperated the young man granted an order to the effect that the Signor beyond measure. “I cannot think of it, though Marchese was the heir provided for in the you are indeed a most sympathetic young man. clause and was entitled to enjoy all the advan- “In thai case I will not trespass upon your ages arising from the inheritance ; but that, as time any longer," said Gonache, who was there was no opposition made by the defendants, beginning to fcar lest his coolness should forsake the subsequent transactions would be left in the him. hands of the family, the court reserving the As he descended the broad marble stairs his powor to enforce the transfer in case any deteſtation of the old hypocrite overcame hin, difficulty should arise hereafter. Of course, it and his wrath broke out. will tako several months to make the division, “ You shall pay me for this some day, you old as tho Signor Marchese will only receive the scoundrel !” he said aloud, very savagely. direct inheritance of his great-grandfather, Montevarchi remained in his study after whilo tho Saracinesca retain all that has come Gouache had gone. A sour smile distorted his to them by their marriages during the last four thin lips, and the expression became more and generations." moro accented until the old man broke into “Of course. Who will be employed to make a laugh: that fang drily against the vaulted the division ?" ceiling. Someono knocked at the door, and “Half Rome, I fancy. It will be an endlegs his nerriment disappeared instantly. Arnoldo business." Meschini entered the room. There was some “But San Giacinto is prince. He will do thing unusual about his appearance, which homage for his titles next Epiphany." attracted the prince's attention at oncu. “Yes. He must present his ten pounds of “Has anything happened ? ' wax and a silver bowl-cheap!” observed Everything. The caso is Your Meschini with a grin. Excellency's son-in-lom is Prince Saracinesca." It may be explained here that the families of The librarian's bright eyes gleamed with ex the Ronan nobility were all subject to a yearly ultation and there was a slight flush in his tribute of merely nominal value, which they cheeks that contrasted oddly with his yellow presented to tho Popo at the Feast of the skin. 'A disagreeable smile made his intelligent Epiphany. The custom was feudal, the Pope face more ugly than usual. He stood half way having been the feudal lord of all the nobles between the door and his employer, his long until 1870. The tribute generally consisted of asme hanging awkwardly by his sides, his head a certain weight of pure wax, or of a piece of thrust forward, his knees a little bent, assuming silver of a specified value, or sometimes of both.

CH, 27 7 ICSS. 116 SANT' ILARIQ As an Instances of the survival of such customs “Iamquite ready to bemove it. The transacme other countries, I may mention the case of tion has been as providential for nie as for the one great Irish family which to this day receives Signor Marchůso." from another a yearly tribuite, paid alternately Yes," answered te pripce rather drily. in the shape of a golden rosc and a golden “And now, my dear Meschini, will you leave spur. ne for a time? I have appointed this lour to “So we have won everything !" exclaimed see my last remaining daughter concerning her Montevarchi after a pause, looking hard at the marriage. She is the last of those fair flowers ! librarian, as though trying to read his thoughts. Ah me! How sad a thing it is to part with “We have won overything, and the thanks are those we love so well! But we have the consoladue to you, my good friend, to you, the faithful tion of knowing that it is for their good, that and devoted conpanion who has helped me to consolation, that satisfaction which only come accomplish this act of truc justice. Ah, how to us when we have faithfully done our duty. čan I ever express to you hy gratitude !" Return to your library, therefore, Meschini, for “The means of expression were mentioned in the present. The consciousness of good well our agreement," answered Meschini with a doue is yours also to-day, and will soothe the servile inclination. “I agreed to do the work hours of solitude and make your new labours for your Excellency at a certain fixed price, as sweet. The reward of righteousness is in itself your Excellency nay remember. Beyond that and of itself. Good-bye, my friend, good-bye! I ask nothing. I am too humble an individual Thank you, thank youto enjoy the honour of Prince Montevarchi's “Would it be agreeable to your Excellency personal gratitude. to let me have the nioncy now?". asked the Yes, of course, but that is mere money!” librarian. There was a tirniness in the tone that said the old gentleman somewhat hastily, but startled Montevarchi. contemptuously withal. “Gratitude proceeds “What money?” he inquired with a well-* from the heart, not from the purse. When feigned surprise. “I do not understand.” I think of all the work you liave done, of the "Twenty thousand scudi, the price of the unselfish way in which you have devoted your work,” replied Meschini, with alarining bluntself to this object, I feel that money can never repay you. Money is sordid trasli, Meschini, “Twenty thousand scudi!” cried the prince. sordid trash! Let us not talk about it. Are wel" I remember that thero was some mention of not friends? The most delicato sensibilities of a sum--two thousand, I think, I said. Even ny soul rejoice when I consider what we have that is enormous, but I was carried away in the accomplished together. There is not annther excitement of the moment. We are all liable man in Rome whom I would trust us. I trust to such weakness-----..." pou, most faithful of men!": “You agreed 10 pay me twenty thousand "The Signor Principe is too kinud," replied scudi in cash on the day that the verdict was Meschini. "Nevertheless, I repeat that I am given in favour of your son-in-law." quite unworthy of such gratitude for having “I never agreed to anything of the kind. merely performed my part in a business transac. My dear friend, success has quite turned your tion, especially in one whorein my own interests head! I have not so much money at my disposal were so deeply concerned." in the whole world." *My only regret is that my son-in-law can 6. You cannot afford to make a fool of me,' riever know the share you have had in his cried Meschini, making a step forward. His But that, alas, is quite impossible. face was red with anger, and his long arms nacle How, indeed, would it be practicable to inform odd gestures. “Will you pay me the money him? And my daughter, too! She would or not?” remember you in all her innocent prayers, even If you take this tone with me I will pay you as I shall do henceforth! No, Meschini, it is nothing whatever. I shall even cease to feel ordained that I, and I alone, should bo the any sense of gratitudemeans of expressing to you the heartfelt thanks To hell with your gratitudo !” exclained of those whom you have so highly benefited, the other, fiercely. “Either you pay me the but who unfortunately can never know the money now, or I go at once to the authorities name of their bcnefactor. Tell me now, dill and donounce the whole treachery." the men of the law look long at the documents ? “ You will only go to the galleys if you do." Did they show any hesitation? Have you any “ You will go with me." reason to believe that their attention was roused, “Notatall. Have you any proof that I have had *arrested by--by the writing?" anything to do with the matter? I tell you that "No, indeed! I should be a poor workman you are quite mad. If you wanted to play this if a parcel of lawyers could detect my hand. trick on me you should have made me sign an writing!” agreement. Even then I would have argued “It is a miracle !” exclaiined Montevarchi, that since you had forged the documents you devoutly. “I consider that Heaven has inter- had, of course, forged the agrcement also. But posed directly to accomplish the ends of justice. you have nothing, not so much as a scrap of An angel guided your hand, my dear friend, to paper to show against me. Be reasonable and make you the instrument of good!" will be magnanimous. I will give you the success. 9) tion” : XIX SANT' ILARIO 117 two thousand I spoke of in the heatpf afticipa- turned out to be Prince Saracinesca, liis deter-e *mination to match Faustina with Frangipani, “You will give me the twenty thousand yon would be even stronger than it had boon beforo. solemnly promised me," said Moschini, with Hence his sudden wish to see Fanstina and to concentrated anger. preparo her mind for what was about to take Montevarchi rose slowly from his chair and place. All at once it seemed as though he could rang the bell. He knew that Meschini would not act quickly enough to satisfy his desire of not be so foolish as to expose himself, and would accomplishment. Ile felt as an old man may continue to hope that he might ultimately get feel who, at the end of a busy life, sees countwhat he askod. less things before him which he would still do, “I cannot argue with a madman," he saiil, and hates the thought of dying before all aro calmly. done. A feverish haste to compRto this last Ho was not in the least afraid of the librarian. step in the apyrandisement of his family, over- The idea never entered his mind that thự midillo- came the old prince. Ho could not understand aged, round-shouldered scholar could be dan- why he had submitted to wasting his time with gerous. A single word from Gouache, a glance Gonache anci Meschini instead of busying himof the artist's eye hud cowed him less than an self actively in the accomplishment of his hour ago; but Meschini's fury left him indifferent. purpose. There was no reason for waiting any The latter saw that for the present there was longer. Frangipani's father had already half nothing to be done. To continue such a scene agreed to the match, and what remained to be br.fore a servant would be the worst kind of done involved only a question of financial folly. details. We will talk the matter over at another As he sat waiting for Faustina a great horror time," he said sullenly, as he left the study by of death rose suddenly and clearly before him. it small door which opened upon a corridor in He was not a very old man and he would have communication with thic library. found it hard to account for the sensition. 16 Montevarchi sont the servant who answered is a notable fact, too, that he feared death the bell with a message begging Donna Faustina rather because it might prevent him from to come to the study at once. Since it was to carrying out his intentions, than because his be a day of interviews he determined to state conscience was 'burdened with the recollection the caso plainly to his daughter, and bid her of many misdeeds. Ilis whole existence haul make ready to comply with his will in case the been passed in such an intricate labyrinth of match with Frangipani turned out to be possible. duplicity towards others and towards himself Ho seemed no more disturbil by Meschini's that he no longer distinguished between the true anger than if the affair had not concerned him and the untrue. Even in this last great fraud in tho least. He had, indeed, long foreseen he had so consistently deceived his own senso what would occur, and even at the moment of veracity that he almost felt limself to when he had promised the bribe he was fully be the instrument of justice he assumed to be. determined never to pay it. The librarian hai The case was a delicate one, too, for the most taken the bait greedily, and it was his own unprejudiced person could hardly have escaped fault if the result did not suit him. He had no feeling sympathy for San Giacinto, tho victini redress, as Montevarchi had told him; there of his ancestor's imprudence. Montevarchi was not so much as a note to serve as a record found it very ensy to bolieve that it was of the cbargain. Meschini had executed the permissible to employ any neans in order to forgery, and he would have to ruin himself in gain such an end, and although he might have order to bring any pressuro to bear upon his regarded the actual work of the forgery iu tho employer. This the latter felt sure that he light of a crime, venial incieed, though contrary would not do, even if driven to extremities. to the law, his own share in the transaction, as Meschini's nature was avaricious, and there was instigator of the deed itself, appeared to be fio reason to suppose that he was tired of life, defensible by a whole multitude of reasons. or ready to go to tho galleys for a bit of personal San Giacinto, by all tho traditions of primo. vengeanco, when, by exercising a little patience, geniture dear to the heart of the Roman noblos he might ultimately hope to get some advantage was the head of the family of Saracinesca. But out of the crime he had committed. Monte- for a piece of folly, hardly to be equalled in varchi meant to pay him what he considered Montevarchi's experience, San Giacinto would a fair price for the work, and he did not see that have been in possession of the estates and titles Meschini had any means of compelling him to without opposition or contradiction since the pay more. Now that the thing was done, ho day of his father's death. The more fact that began to regret that he himself had not made the Saracinesca had not defended the caso some agreement with San Giacinto, but a proved that they admitted tho justice of their moñent's reflection sufficed to banish. the cousin's claims. Had old Lcone foreseen tho thought as 'unworthy of his superior astute. contingency of a marriago in his old age, he His avarice was on a large scale and would either never have signed the deed at allein was merging into ambition. It might have ot else he would have introduced just , such been foreseen that, after having married one of a conditional clauso as had been forged by his two remaining daughters to a man who had Meschini. When a great injustice has been ness.

16 SANT ILARIO committed, thtough folly or oarelessness, when Faustina, gravely. She was too well brought those who have been most benefited by it admit up to show way of the disliku she felt for her that injustice, when to redress it is merely to father's way of doing things, but she wall act;in accordance with the spirit of the laws, is willing to make it as hard possible for him vita crino thien to bring about so much good by to express himself. merely sacrificing a scruple of conscience, by • Cannot you guoss what it is?" asked the employing someone to restore an inheritance to old man, with a ludicrous attempt at hanter. its rightful possessor with a few clever strokes "What is it that is nearest to every girl's of the pen? The answer seemed so clear to heart? Is not that little hoart of yours already Montevarchi that he did not even ask himself a resort of the juvenile deity ?" the question. Indeed, it would have been I do not understand you, papa. superfluous to do so, for he had so often satisfied Well, well, my dear-I see that your educa.. all objections to doubtfj' courses by a similar tion has not included a course of mythology: sophistry, that he knew teforehand what reply It is quite as well, perhaps, as those heathens would present itself to his self-inquiry. He are poor company for the young. I refer to did not even experience a sense of relief as he marriage, l'austina, to tliat all-important step turned from the contemplation of what he had which you are soon to take.” just done to the question of Faustina's marriage, “ Have you quite decided to marry me to in which there was nothing that could torment Frangipani?" asked the young girl with hiskonscience. He was not even aware that he a calmness that soinewhat disconcerted her ought to recognise a difference between the two father. affairs. He was in great haste to settle th “How boldly you speak of it!” he exclaimed preli ries, and that was all. If he shonld with a sigh of disapproval. “I will not, howdie hothought, the princess would have her ever, conceal from you that I hope o.vn way in everything, and would doubtless let * Pray talk plainly with me, papa !” cried Ceaustina throw herself away upon somo such Faustina, suddenly looking up. I cannot bear man as Gouache. The thought roused him from this suspense.' his reverie, and at the same time brought a sour “Ah! Is it so, little one?" Montevarchi smile to his face. Gouache, of all people! Ho shook his finger playfully at her. “I thought looked up and saw that Faustina had entered I should find you ready? So you are anxious and was standing before him, is though expect to become a princess at once? Well, well, all ing him to speak. Her delicato, angelic features women are alike!' were pale, and she held her small hands folded Faustina drow herself up a little and fixed before her. She had discovered by somo means her deep brown eyes upon her father's face, that Gouache had been with her father and she very quietly and solemnly. feared that something unpleasant had happened * You misunderstand nie,” she gaid. “I only and that she was about to be called to account. wish to know your decision in order that I may The vision of Frangipani, too, was present in give you my answer. ler,mind, and she anticipated a stormy inter- "And what can that answer be! Have I not View, But her mind was nadle up; she would chosen wisely, a husband fit for you in every hava Anastase or she would have nobody. The way?” two exchangeul a preliminary glance bofore From your point of view, I havo no doubt gither spoke. of it. “I trust you are not about to commit the unpardonablu folly of differing from me, my daughter," answerer Montevarchi, with sudden change of tone indicative of rising CHAPTER XX displeasure." It is for me to decide, for you to accept my decision." MONTEVARCHI made his daughter sit beside hin * Upon other points, yos. In the question of and took her hand affectionately in his, assuming marriage I think I have something to say. #t the same time the expression of sanctimonious “Is it possible that you can have any superiority he always woro when he mentioned objeations to the match I have found for you? the cares of his household, or was engaged in Is it possible that you are so foolish as to fancy regulating any matter of importance in his that at your age you can understand these family. Flavia used to imitato the look things better than I Faustina, I would not admirably, to the delight of her brothers and have believed it?" sisters. He smiled meaningly, pressed the girl's "How can you understand what I feel." fingers, and smiled again, attempting in vain to “It is not a question of feeling, it is a elicit some response. But Faustina remained question of wisdom, of foresight, of prudence, cold and indifferent, for she was used to her of twenty qualities which you are far too young father's ways and did not like them. to possess. If marriage were a mattër of feeling “You know what I am going to say, I am of vulgar sentiment, I ask you, what would sure," he began. “ It concerns what must be become of the world? Of what uge is it to have Very gear your heart, my dear child.” all the sentiment in life, if you have not that "I do not knowhat it can be," answered / which makes life itself possible? Can you eat " .66 BO my child. name. " What I say. SANT ILARO 11g: sontinant Can you harness sentimèrit in. a "Is it undutiful not to be able to love a mar carriage and make it exccute a tröttata in the one hardly knows, when one is, ordered to do Villa Borghest? Can you change an ounce of sentiment into glòd silver scudi and make it - You will make me loso my patiences pay for a journey in the hot weather? No, no, Faustina !" exclaimed Montevarchi, in, angryn Heaven knows that I am not tones. “Have I not explained to you the avarioious: Few men, I think, know: better nature of love ? Have I not told you that you than I that wealth "is perishable stuff, but so can love your husband as much as you please? is this mortal body, and the perishable must be Is it not a father's duty to direct the affections nourished with the perishable, lest dust return of his child as I wish to do, and is it not the to dust sooner than it would in the ordinary child's first obligation to submit to its father's course of nature. Money alone will not give will and guidance ? What more would you happiness, but it is, nevertheless, niost important have? In truth, you aro very exacting !" to possess a certain amount of it." “I am very unhappy!” The young girl "I would rather do without it than be turned away and rested her elbow on the table, miserablo all my life for having got it.”. supporting her chin in her hand. She stared "Miserable all your life? Why should you absently at the old bookcases as though she bo miserable? No woman should be unhappy were trying to read the titles upon the dingy who is married to a good nian. My dear, this bindings. Montovarchi understood her words matter admits of no discussion. Frangipani' to convey a submission, and changed his tone is young, handsome, of irreproachable moral once more. character, heir to a great fortune and to a great “Well, well, my dear, you will never regreti You desire to be in love. Good. Love your obedience," ho said. "Of course, my will come, the reward of having chosen wisely. beloved child, it is never easy to see things as it It will be time enough then to think of your is best that we should sco them. I see that you sentiments. Dear me! if we all bogan life by have yielded at lastthinking of sentiment, where would our existence “I have not yielded in tho least !" cried end?" Faustina, suddenly facing him, with an expres- “Will you please tell me whether you have sion he had never seen before. quite decided that I am to marry Frangipani ?” “What do you mean?" asked Monterarchi, Faustina found her father's discourses intoler. in considerable astonishment. able, and, moreover, she had something to say I will not marry Frangipani which would be hard to oxpress and still harder --- I will not ! Do you understand?" to sustain by her actions. "No. I do not understand such language “If you insist upon my giving you an answer, from my daughter; and as for your determinawhich you caust have already foreseen, I am tion, I tell you that you will most certainly end willing to tell you that I have quito decided by acting as I wish you to act." upon the inatch." - You cannot force nie to marry. What can "I cannot marry him!” exclaimed Faustina, you do? You can put me into a convent. Do clasping her hands together and looking into you think that would make me change thy her father's face. inind? I would thank God for any qayrint My dear," answered Montevarchi, with which I might find refugo from such tyranny." a smile, it is absolutely clecided. We cannot My daughter,” replied the prince, in bland" draw lack. You must marry him." tones, “I am fully resolved not to be angry Must, papa ? Oh, think what you are with you. Your undutiful conduct proceeds saying! I ain not disobedient, indeed I am from ignorance, which is never an offence, though not. I have always submitted to you in every. it is always a misfortune. If you will have thing. But this --no, not this. Bid me do a little patienceanything else--anything.--". "I havo none !” exclaimed Faustina, exas- * But, my chuld, nothing clse would produco perated by her father's manner. “My undutiful the same result. Bo reasonable, You tell me conduct does not proceed from ignorance-it to impose some other duty upon you. That is proceeds from love, from love for another mating not what I want. I must sco you nearried whom I will marry if I marry anyonc.' before I die, and I am an old nan. “Faustina !” cried Montevarchi, holding up each day, may be my last. Of what use would his hands in horror and amazement. it be that you should make another sacrifice to dare to use such language to your father!" ploase me, when the one thing I desiro is to see “I dar do anything, everything I dare you well settled with a good husband ? I have oven tell you the name of the man I love. done what I could. I have procured you the Anastase Gouache!” best match in all Rome, and now yon imploro “My child! My child! This is too horrible ! me to spare you, to reverse my decision, to tell I must really send for mother." my old friend Frangipani that you will not have “Do what you will." his son, and to go out into the market to find Faustina had risen to her feet and was standin you another helpmeet. It is not reasonablc. Ing before one of the old bookcases, her hands I had expected more dutiful concluct from folded before her, her eyes on fire, her delicate you." mouth scornfully bent. Montevarchi, who was 6 Each year, Do you your I 20 SANT' ILARIO CH. " 91 really startled almost out of his senses, moved “Things that would make you tromble, my cautiously towards the bell, looking steadily at dear! She refuses to marry Frangipania his daughter all the while as though he dreaded "Refuses ! But, Faustina, you do not know somo fresh outbreak. Thero was something what you are doing! You are out of your ludicrous in his behaviour which, at another mind ?" time, would not have escaped the young girl. “And she talks wildly of narrying a certain Now, howorer, she was too much in earnest to Frenchiman, a Monsieur Gouacho, I believe-is perceive anything except the danger of her there such a man, my dear?”. position and the necessity for remaining firm at "Of course, Lotario ! The little man you ran any cost. She did not understand why hor over. How forgetful you are !" mother was to be called, but she felt that sbe “ Yes, yes, of course. I know. But you could face all'her family if necessary. She kept must reason with her, Guendalinaher eyes upon her father and was 'hardly “It seems to me, Lotario, that you should conscious that a servant entered the room. lo that-- Montevarchi sent a message requesting th. • My dear, I think the child is insane upon princess to come at onco. Then he turned again the subject. Where could sho have picked up towards Faustina. such an idea? Is it a mere caprico, a mere “You can hardly surpose," he observed, "that picce of impertinence, invented to disconcert I take seriously what you have just said ; but the sober senses of a careful father?” you are evidently very much excitel, and your Nonsenso, Lotario! She is not capable of mother's presence will, I trust, have a soothing that. After all, she is not Flavia, who always effect. You must be aware that it is very had something dreadful quite ready, just when wrong to utter such monstrous untruths-oven you least expected it." in jest--- “I almost wish she were Flavia !” exclaimer I am in earnest. I will marry Monsieur Montevarchi, ruefully. Flavia has done very Gouache or I will marry no one. well.” Montevarchi really believed that his daughter's During all this time Faustina was standing mind was deranged. His interview with Gouache with her back towards the window and her had convinced him that Faustina meant what hands folded before her, looking from the one to she snid, though he affected to laugh at it, but the other of the speakers with an air of bitter he was wholly unable to account for her conduct contempt which was fast changing to uncon. on any theory but that of insanity. Being at' trollable anger. Some last remaining instinct his wits' end he had sent for his wife, and while of prudence kept her from interrupting the waiting for her he did not quite know what to conversation by a fresh assertion of her will, do. and she waited until one of them chose to speak My dear child, what is Monsieur Gouache? to her. She had lost her head, for she would A very estimable young man, without doubt, otherwise nevor have gone so far as to mention but not such a one as we could choose for your Gouache's name, but, as with all very sponhusband." taneous natures, with her to break the first I have chosen him," answered Faustina. barrier was to go to the extreme, whatever it " That is enough." might be. Her clear brown eyes were very “How you talk, my dear! Ilow rashly you bright, and there was something luminous about talk! As though choosing a husband were like her angelic faco which showed that her wholo buying a new hat! And you, too, whom I always being was undoř the influence of an, extrabelieved to be the most dutiful, the most ordinary emotion, almost amounting to exaltaobedient of my children! But your mother and tion. It was impossible to foresce what she I will reason with you, wo will endeavour to would say or do. put better thoughts into your heart." "Your father almost wishes you were Flavia!" Faustina glauced scornfully at her father and groaner the princess, shaking her head and turned away, walking slowly in the direction of looking, very grave. Then Faustina laughed the window. scornfully and her wrath bubbled over, " It is of no use to waste your breath on me,' "I am not l'lavia !" sho crierl, coming forward she said presently. "I will marry Gouache or and facing her father and mother. " I daresay nobody. you do wish I were. Flavia has done so very “You-marry Gouache?" cried the princess, well. Yos, sho is Princess Saracinesca this who entered at that moment, and heard the ovening, I suppose. Indeed she has done well, last words. Her voice expressed an amazement for she has married the man she loves, as nuuch as and horror fully equal to her husband's. she is capable of loving anything. And that is " Have you come to join the fray, mamma?” all the more reason why I should do the same. inquired Faustina, in English, Besides, am I as old as Flavia that you should * Pray speak in a language I can understand," be in such a hurry to marry me? Do you think said Montevarchi who, in a whole lifetime, had I will yield? Do you think that while I loyo one never mastered a word of his wife's native man, I will be so base as to marry another." tongue. "I have explained to you that love----" « Oh, Lotario !” exclaimed the princess. “Your explanations will drive me mad! You "What has the child been telling you ?” may explain anything in that way--and provo XX SANT ILARIO I21 mean. I love." 66 with anger. that Love itself dous not exist. Do you think burst into tears, burying her face in her hansı your saying, so makes it true? There is more and sobbing aloud. truth in a little of my love than in all your "If you are going to cry, Guendalina, you wliole life !" d better go away,” said her husband, who was " Faustina!" now as angry as his mean nature would permit " What? May I not answer you? Must him to be. She was so much accustomed to I beliove you infallible when you use arguments obey that she left the room, crying as she went, that would not satisfy a child? Is my whole and casting back a most sorrowful look at nature a shadow because yours cannot under. Faustina. stand my reality ?" Montevarchi shut the door, and, coming back, "If you are going to make this a question of scized his daughter's arm and shook it-violently. metaphysics "Fool!” he cried angrily, unable to find any "I am not, I do not kuow what metaphysics other word to express his rage. But I will repeat before my mother Faustina said nothing, but tried to push him what I said to you alone. I will not marry away, her bright eyes gleaming with contempt. Frangipani, and you cannot force me to marry Her silence exasperated the old man still further. him. If I marry anyone I will have the man Like most very cowarılly nien lie could be brutal to women when he was angry. It seemed to But, my dearest Faustina,"cried the princess him that the girl, by her folly, had dashed from in genuino distress, "this is a mere idoa-a sort him the last great satisfaction of his life at the of madnoss that has seized upon you. Consider very moment wlien it was within reach. He your position, consider what you owe to us, could have forgiven her for ruining herself, had considershe done so ; he could not forgivo her for dis- Considor, consider', consider ! Do you sup- appointing his ambition. He knew that one pose that any amount of consideration would word of the story she had told would make the change me? groat marriage impossible, and he knew that “Do you think your childish anger will she had the power to speak that word when she change us ?" inquired Montovarchi, blandly. pleased, as well as the courage to do so. He did not care to lose his tomper, for he was “Fool!” he repeated, and before she could quite indifferent to Faustina's rcal inclinations, draw back ho struck lier across the mouth with if she would only consent to marry Frangipani. the back of his hand. “Childish !” cried Faustina, her eyes blazing A few drops of bright red blood trickled frorn “Was I childish when I followed her delicate lips. With an instinctive movement him out into the midst of tho revolution last she pressed her handkerchief to the wound. October, when I was nearly killed at the Ser- Montevarchi snatched it roughly from her hand ristori, whe: I thought he was dead and kucit and threw it across the room. From his eyes there among the ruins until he found me and she guessed that ho would striko her again if brought mo home? Was that a child's love? she remained. With a look of intense hatred The princess turned pale and grasped her she made a supreme effort, and, concentrating husband's arm, staring at Faustina in horror. the whole strength of her sloniler frame, The old man trembled and for a few moments wrenched herself free. could not find strougth to speak. Nothing that “Coward !”she cried, as he reeled backwards; Faustina could havo invented, could have pro- then, before he could recover himself, she was duced such a sudden and treniendous effect as gone and he was left alone. this revelation of what had happened on the He was terribly angry, and at the same time night of the insurrection, coming from the girl's his ideas were confused, so that he hardly own lips with the unmistakable accent of truth. understood anything but the main point of her The mother's instinct was the first to assert story, that she had been with Gouache on that itself. With a quick movement she threw her night when Corona had brought her homo. He arms round the young girl, as though to protect began to reason again. Corona knew the truth, her from harm. of course, and her husband know it too. “It is not true, it is not true," she cried in Montevarchi realised that he had already taken an agonised tone. “Faustina, my child-it is his revenge for their complicity, before knowing not truo!" that they had injured him. His overwrought "It is quito true, manma," answered Haustina, brain was scarcely capable of receiving another who enjoyed an odd satisfaction in seeing the impression. Ile laughed aloud in a way that effect of her words, which ein only be explained was almost hysterical. by her perfect innocence. Why are you so “All!" ho cried in sudden exultation. “Allmuch astonished! I loved him--I thought he even to their name--but the other His was going out to be killed--I would not let him face changed quickly, and he sank into his chair and buried his face in his hands, as he thought “ Qh, Faustina ! How could you do it!" of all ho had lost through Faustina's folly. moaned the princess. “It is too horrible-it is And yet the harm might be repaired-no ono not to be boliovedknew except "I loved him I love him still." He looked up and saw that Meschini had Princess Montevarchi fell into a chair and returned and was standing before him, as though . " go alone 122 SANT'. ILARIO CH, 60 - vaiting to be addressed. The suddenness of I have told you that I would give you two rance made the prince utter' thousandan exclamation of surprise. " Twenty thousand!” Meschini came a little *** Yes, I have come back," said Meschini. Dearer. * The natter we were discussing cannot be put “Not a single baiocco if you are exorbitant." off, and I have come back to ask you to be good “Twenty thousand hard, good scudi in cash; enough to pay the money." I tell you. No more, but no legs either." . The Montevarchi was nervous, and had lost the librarian's hands were clenched, and he breathed calm tone of superiority he had maintained hard, whilo his red eyes stared in a way that before his interview with Faustina. The idea began to frighten Montevarchi. of losing e Frangipani, too, made his avarice 'No, no, be reasonable! My dear Meschini, assert itself very strongly. pray do not behave in this manner. You almost "I told you," he replied, "that I refused make me believe that you are threatening me. altogether to talk with you, so long as you I assure you that I desire to do what is addressed me in that tone. I repeat it. Leave just---- me, and when you have recovered your manners 'Give me the monoy at once I will give you something for yourself. You “But I have not so much--murder!! Ahwill get nothing so long as you demand it as gh-gh-" though it were a right. Arnoldo Meschini's long arms had shot out "I will not leave this room without the and his hands had seized the prince's throat in money," answered Meschini, resolutely. Tho a grip from which there was no escape. There bell was close to the door. The librarian placed lurked a surprising strength in the librarian's himself between the prince and both. round shoulders, and his energy was doubled - Leave the room!" cried Montevarchi, by a fit of anger that amounted to insanity.. trembling with anger. lIe had so long despised The old man rocked and swayed in his chair, Meschini, that the exhibition of obstinacy on and grasped at tho green table-cover, but the part of the latter did not frighten hiin. Meschini had got behind him, and pressed his The librarian stood before the bell and the fingers tighter and tighter. His eye rested upon latch of the door, his long arms hanging down Faustina's handkerchief that lay on the floor at by his sides, his face yellow, his eyes red. Any his feet. His victim was almost at the last gasp, one might have seen that he was growing, bout the handkerchief would do the job better. dangerous. Instead of repeating his refusal to deschini kept his grip with one hand, and with go, he looked steadily at his employer, and the other snatched up the bit of linen. Ho drew a disagreeable smile played upou his ugly it tight round the neck and wrenched at the features. Montevarchi saw it, and his fury knot with his yellow teeth. There was a conboiled over He laid his hands on the arms of vulsivo strugglo, followed by a long interval of his chair as though he would rise, and in that quiot. Then another moveinent, less violent, moment he would have been capable of striking this time, another and another, and then Meschini as he had struck Faustina. Meschini Meschini felt the body collapse in his grasp. It shufted forwards and held up his hand. Montevarchi was dead. Meschini “Do not be violent," he said, in a low voice. drew back against the bookcases, trembling in "I am not your daughter, you know." very joint. He scarcely saw the objects in the Montevarchi's jaw dropped, and he fell back room, for his head swam and his sensos failed into his chair again. him, from horror and from the tremendous " You listened-you saw------- ” he gasped. physical effort he had made. Then in an instant Yes, of course. Will you pay mo? I am he realised what he had done, and the consedesperate, and I will have it. You and your quences of the deed suggested themselves. miserable secrets are mine, and I will have my He had not meant to kill the prince. So long price. I only want the sum you promised, as he had kept some control of his actions he, I shall be rich in a few days, for I have entered had not even meant to lay violcnt hands upon into an affair in which I shall get millions, as him. But he had the nature of a criminal," by many as you have perhaps. But the money turns profoundly cunning and foolishly rash. must be paid to-morrow morning or I am ruined, A fatal influence had pushed him onward so and you must give it to me. Do you hear? Do soon as he had raised his arm, and before he was you understand that I will have what is mine?” thoroughly conscious of his actions the deed was At this incoherent speech, Montevarchi re- done. Then came the fear of consequences, then covered sonething of his former nerve. There again the diabolical reasoning which intuitively was something in Meschini's language that foresees the immediate results of murder, and founded like argument, and to argue was to provides against them at once. temporise. The prince changed his tone. Nobody knows that I have been here: "But, my dear Meschini, how could you lie Nothing is missing. No one knows about the 80 rash as to go into a speculation when you forgery. No one will suspect me. There is no knew that the case might not be decided for one in the library vor in the corridor. The another week? You are really the most rasli' handkerchiof is not mine. If it was not big man I ever knew. I cannot undertake to own it was Donna Faustina's. No one will guarantee your speculations. I will be just. suspect her. It will remain a nystory: was over. 6 XX SANT' ILARIO 123 ..oh . Meschini went towards the door through which he had entered and opened it. He looked CHAPTER XXI back and hold his breath. The prince's head had fallen forward upon his hands as they lay GIOVANNI came home late in the afternoon and on the table, and the attitude was that of a man found Corona sitting by the fire in her boudoir. ovorcome by despair, but not that of a dead She had known that he would return before long, body. The librarian glanced round the room. but had not anticipated his coming with any There was no trace of a strugglo. The position pleasure. When ho entered the room she of the furniture had not been changed, nor had looked up quietly, without a smilo, to assure anything fallen on the floor. Meschini went herself that it was he and no one else. She out and softly closed the door behind him, said nothing, and he sat down upon, the other leaving the dead man alone. side of the fireplace. There was an air of The quiet afternoon sun fell upon tho houses embarrassment about their meetings, until on the opposite side of the street, and cast a one or the other had made some remark melancholy reflection into the dismal chamber which led to a commonplace conversation. On where Prince Montovarchi had passed so many the present occasion noither seemed inclined to hours of his lifo, and in which that life had be the first speaker and for some minutes they been cut short so suddenly. On the table sat opposito to each other in silence. Giovanni before his dead hands lay the copy of the verdict, glanced at his wifo from time to time, and once the testimony of his last misdeed, of the crime she turned her head and not his eyes. Her for which he had paid the forfeit upon the very expression was cold and grave as though she day it was due. It lay there like the super- wished him to understand that she had nothing scription upon a malofactor's gallows in ancient to say. Ho thought she had never been so times, the advertiscment of the reason of his beautiful before. Tho firelight, striking her death to all who chose to inquire. Not a sound face at an upward angle, brought out clearly the was heard save the noise that roso faintly and noble symmetry of hor features, the level brow, at intervals from the narrow street below, the the wido, delicate nostrils, the oven curve of her cry of a hawker, the song of a street-boy, the lips, the splendid breadth of her smooth forehead, bark of a dog. To-morrow the poor body would shaded by her heavy black hair. She seemed be mounted upon & magnificent catafalque, to fcel cold, for she sat near tho flames, resting surrounded by tho pomp of a princely morning, one foot upon the fender, in an attitude that illuminated by hundreds of funeral torches, an threw into relief the perfect curves of her figure, object of aversion, of curiosity, even of jest, as she bent slightly forward, spreading her perhaps, among those who bore the prince a hands occasionally to the blaze. grudge. Many of those who had known hini "Corona »° Giovanni stopped suddenly would come and look on his dead face, and after pronouncing her name, as though he had some would say that he was changed and others changed his mind while in the act of speaking. that he was not. His wife and his children “What is it?" sho asked indifferently enough. : would, in a few hours, be all dressed in black, "Would you like to go away! I have been moving silently and mournfully and occasion. wondering whether it would not be better than ally showing a little feeling, though not more staying here." than would be decent. There would be masses Sho looked up in some surprise. She had sung, and prayers said, and his native city would thought of travelling more than onco of late, hear the tolling of the heavy vells for one of her but it seemed to her that to niuke a journey greatest personages. All this would be done, together would be only to increase the difficulties and moro also, until the dcad prince should be of the situation. There would be of necessity laid to rest beneath the marblo floor of the more intimacy, more daily converse than the chapel where his ancestors lay side by side. life in Rome forced upon her. She shrank from Bui to-day he sat in state in his shabby chair, the idea for the very reason which made it his head lying upon that tablo over which he attractive to her, husband. had plotted and schemed for so many years, his "No," she answered. "Why should we white fingers almost touching the bit of paper travel? Besides, with a child so youngwhereon was written the ruin of the Saracinesca. “We might leave Orsino at home," suggosted And upstairs the man who had killed him Giovanni. He was not preparod for the look shuffled about the library,'an anxious expression she gave him as she replied. on his yellow face, glancing from time to time “I will certainly not consent to that." at his hands as he took down one heavy volume “Would you be willing to take him with you,' after another, practising in solitude the habit of and leave me here? You could easily find sooming occupied, in order that he might not a friend to go with youmeven my father. He be taken unawares when an undef-servant would enjoy it immensely." should be sent to tell the insignificant librarian Thore was the shortest possible pause before of what had happened that day in Casa Monte- she answered him this time. It did not escape Warohi. him, for he expected it. No. I will not do that, either. I do not care to go away. Why should I, and at such a time?" 93 .

65 - 12 << ine. I 24 SANT ILARIO CH. ---- I think I will go alone, in that case," said “If I could but move you a little !” he said Giovanni quietly, but watching her face. She at last, almost inaudibly. "If I could do any. maile no reply, but looked at him curiously as thing, suffer anything for you though sho suspected him of laying a trap for She shook her head sorrowiully and then, 'as her. though afraid that she had givenchim pain, she “You say nothing. Is silence consent?" took his hand and pressed it affectionately, I think it would be very unwise." affectionately, not lovingly. It was as cold as "You do not answer me. Be frank, Corona. ice. He sighed and once moro turned away. Would you not be glad to bo left alone for Just then the door opened, and old Pasquale a time? appeared, his face palo with fright. "Why lo you insist ?" she asked with a little Eccellenza, a note, and tho man says that inipatienco. "Are you trying to make me say Prince Montevarchi has just been murdered, something that I shall regret ? and that the note is from Donna Faustina, and “Would you regret it, f it were said? Why the police are in the Palazzo Montevarchi, and not be honest ? It would be an immense relief that the poor princess is dying, and to you if I went away. I could find an excellent Corona hard risen quickly with a cry of excuse and noborly woull guess that there was astonishment. Giovanni had taken the letter anything wrong. and stool staring at the servant as though ho be- For that matter---there is nothing wrong. lieved that the man was mad. Then he glanced Of course no one would say anything." at the aildress and saw that it was for his wife. “I know you will think that I have no tact," Faustina is accused of the murder !" she Giovanni observed with considerable justice. exclaimed. “I must go to her at once. The Corona could not repress a smile at the carriage, Pasquale, instantly ! renark, which expressed most exactly what she “Faustina Montevarchi killed her own herself was thinking father!” cried Giovanni in the utmost astonishi- * Frankly-I think it would be better to leave ment. things alone. Do you not think so, too!!! Corona thrust the note into his hands. It How coolly you say that !” exclaimed only contained a few words scrawled in an Giovanni. “It is so easy for you---so hard for irregular hand as though written in great I would do anything you asked, and you emotion. will not ask anything, because you would make “Of course it is some horriblo niistako,” said any sacrilico rather than accept one from me. Corona, “but I must go at once. Did you ever really love me, Corona? Is it "I will witli you. I may be able to give possible that love can be killed in a day, by, some help. a word? I wonder whether there is any woman Five minutes later, they were clescending the alive as coll as you are ! Is it anything to you stairs. The carriage was not ready, and leaving that I should suffer as I am suffering, every day?” orders for it to follow them they went out into "You cannot understandthe street and took a passing cab). Under the “No that is true. I cannot understand. influence of the excitement they acted together I was base, cowardly, cruel--I make no defence. instinctively. During the short drive thoy Biit if I was all that, and more too, it was exchanged but few words, and those ,only because I loved you, because the least suspicion expressive of amazement at the catastrophe. drove me mad, because I could not reason, At the Palazzo Montevarchi everything was loving you as I did, any more than I can reason already in confusion, the doors wide open, the now. Oh, I love you too much, too wholly, too servants hurrying aimlessly hither and thither foolishly! I will try and change and be another with frightened faces. l'hey had just been man--so that I may at least look at you without released from the preliminary examination held going mad !" by the profect of police. A party of gendarmes He rose to his feet and went towards the stood together in the antechamber taiking, door. But Corona called him back. The while one of their number mounted guard at bitterness of his words and the tone in which the door with a drawn sabre, allowing no one they were spoken hurt her, and made her to leave tho house. A terrified' footman loc realise for a moment what he was suffering. Giovanni and Corona to the great drawing- “ Giovanni-dear--do not leave mo so I am room. unhappy, too. The vast chamber' was lighted by a single “ Are you?" He had come to her side and lamp which stood upon a yellow marble piorstood looking down into her eyes. table, and cast dim shadows on the tapestry of Wretcherlly unhappy." She turned her the walls. The old-fasilioned furniture was face away again. She could not help it. ranged stiffly around the room as usual ; the “You are unhappy, and yet I can do nothing. air was damp and cold, not being warmed even Why do you call me back? by the traditional copper brazier. The voices "If only could, if I only could !” sho of the group of porsons collected within the repeated in a low voice. circle of the light sounded hollow, and echoed There was silence for a few seconds, during strangely in the huye emptiness. Dominant which Giovanni could hear his heart beat loudly above the rest were heard the hard tones of the and irregularly. prefect of police. ) XXI SANT' ILARIO 125 "I can assure you," he was saying, " that her person, the case being very clear, and to I feel the greatest regret in being obliged to convey her to a safe place. assort my decision.' Giovanni could scarcely contain his wrath • Giovanni and Corona came forward, and the while the prefect made this long speoch, but le rost made way for them. The prefect stood was resolved to listen to the account given with his back to the light and to the table, like without interrupting it. When the man had a man who is at bay. He was of middle height, finished, however, his anger burat out. very dark, and inclining to stoutness. His “And do you take nothing into consideraaquiline features and his eyes, round in shape, tion," he cried, “but the fact that the princo but half veiled by heavy lids, gave him some- was strangled with that handkerchief, and that thing of the appearance of an owl. When he there had been some disagreement hetween hini spoke, his voice was harsh and mechanical, and and his daughter in the course of tho day? Do he always seemed to be looking just over the you mean to say that you, who ought to be head of the person he addressed. lle made no a man of sense, believe it possible that this gestures, and hell himself very straight. delicato child could take a hale old gentleman Opposito him stood Faustina Montovarchi, by the throat and throttle him to death? It is her faco luminously pale, her eyes almost wild madness, I say! It is absurd !" in their fixed expression. She held her hands “ It is not absurd," answered the prefect, clasped before her, and her fingers worked whose mechanical tone never changed throughnervously. Around her stood her brothers and out the conversation. " There is no other their wives, apparently speechless with horror, cxplanation for the facts, and the facts are crowiling together like frightened sheep before undeniable. Would you like to see the body?" the otficer of tho law. Neither her mother, nor “There are a thousand explanations each ten Flavia, nor San Giacinto accompanied the rest. thousand times as reasonable as the one you It would be inipossible to imagine a number of offer. He was probably murierod by a servant persons more dub and helpless with fear. out of spite, or for the sake of robbing him. “Oh, Corona, save mo!” cried Faustina, You are so sure of your idea that I daresay you throwing herself into her friend's arms as soon did not think of searching the rooin to seo as sho saw her face. whether anything had been taken or not.” “Will you be good enough to explain what “You are under a delusion. Everything has has occurred ?" said Giovanni, confronting the been searched. Moreover, it is quite well prefect sternly. “Do you mean to tell me that known that his deceased Excellency never kept you have accused this innocent child of mur- money in the house. There was consoquently dering her father? You are mad, sir !" nothing to take." “Pardon mo, Signor Principe, I am not mad, “ Then it was done out of spite, by a servant, and no one can rogret more than I what has unless someone got in through the window." occurred here," replied the other in loud, “No one could get in through the window. metallic tcnes. “I will give you the facts in It was done out of anger by this young lady.” two minutes. Prince Montevarchi was found “I tell you it was not !" cried Giovanni, dead an hour ago. He had been dead some growing furious at the man's obstinacy. time. He had been strangled by means of this * There is reason to believe that it was, pocket handkerchief-observe the stains of returned the perfect, perfectly unmoved. blood--which I hold as part of the evidence. Giovanni stamped his foot upon tho floor The Signora Donna Faustina is aclmitted to be angrily and turned away. Faustina had drawn the last person who saw the prince alive. She back a little and was leaning upon Corona's arm admits, furthermore, that a violent scene for support, while the latter ispoke words of occurred between her and her father this after comfort in her ear, such words as she could find noon, in the courso of which his Excelloncy at such a time. A timid murmur of approval strrick his daughtor, doubtless in the way of arose from the others every time Giovanni paternal correction-observe the bruiso upon the spoko, but none of them ventured to say young lady's mouth. There is also another upon anything distinctly. Giovanni was disgusted It is clear that, being young and with them all and turned to the young girl vigorous and remarkably well grown, she opposed herself. violence to violence. She went behind him, for " Donna Faustina will yon tell me what you the prince was found dead in his chair, leaning know?" forward upon the table, and she succeeded in She had seemed exhausted by the struggle knotting the handkerchief so firmly as to sho hail already endured, but at Sant'Ilario's produce asphyxia süperinduced by strangulation question, she straightened herself and came for. without suspension. All this is very clear. ward again one or two steps. Giovanni thought I have examined every member of che house. her eyes very strange, but she spoke collectedly nold, and have reluctantly arrived, at the and clearly. conclusion, most shocking, no doubt, to these “I can only say what I have said before,” pacifically disposed persons, that this young she answered. My father sent for me this lady allowed herself to be so far carried away afternoon, I should think about three o'clock. by her foolings as to take the lifo of her parent. He spoke of my marriage, which he has been Upon this charge I have no course but to arrest contemplating some time. I answered that lor arm.

He was angry, arm. 1126 SANT ILARIO CH, I svould not marry Priņoe Frangipani's son, a delicate child: Hàs she the features of because.com ." she hositated. a murderess? She is brave against you, because " Because !" you represent a horrible idea against which her Because I love another man," she continued whole nature revolts, but can you believe that she almost defiantly. “A man who is not a prince has the courage to do such a deed, the bad heart but an artist." to will it, or the power to carry it out? Think A murmur of horror ran round the little group of what took place. Her father sent for hor of the girl's relations. She glanced at them suddenly. Ho insisted roughly on 'a marriage. scornfully. she detests. What woman would not put out "I am not ashamed of it," she said. “But her whole strength to resist such tyranny? I would not tell you unless it were necessary- What woman would submit quietly to be to make you understand how angry he was. matched with a man she loathes ? She said, I forgot he had called my mother, and she 'I will not.' She even told her father and was there. He sent her away. Then he came mother, together, that sho loved another man. back and struck me! I put my handkerchief Her mother left the room, her mother, the only to my mouth because it bled. He snatched it one from whom she might have expected supaway and threw it on the floor. He took nie by port. She was alone with her father, and he the arm-he was standing I wrenched myself was angry. Was he an onfeebled invalid, conout of his hands and ran away, because I was fined to his chair, broken with years, incapable afraid of him. I did not see him again. Beyond of an effort ? Ask his children. We all knew this I know nothing. him well. He was not very old, he was tall, Giovanni was struck by the concise way in erect, even strong for his years. which Faustina told her story. It was true beside himself with disappointment. He rises that she had told it for the second time, but, from his chair, he seizes her by the arm, he while believing entirely in her innocence, he strikes hor in the face with his other hand. saw that her manner might easily have made You say that he struck her when he was seated. a bad impression upon the prefect. When she It is impossible could she not have drawn had done, she stood still a moment. Then her back, avoiding the blow? Would the blow hands dropped by her sides and sho shrank back itself have had such force? No. He was on again to Corona who put her arm round the girl's his feet, a tall, angry man, holding her by one waist and supported her. Is it conceivable that she, a frail child, "I must say that my sister's tale seems clearly could have had the physical strength to force true," said the feeble voice of Ascanio Bellegra. him back to his seat, to hold him there while His thin, fair beard seemed to tremble as he she tied that handkerchief round his neck, to moved his lips. resist and suppress his struggles until he was " Seems! cried Corona indignantly. “It dead? Do you think such a man would die is true! How can anyone be so mad as to easily? Do you think that to send him out of doubt it?" the world it would bo enough to put your "I do not deny its truth," said the perfect, fingers to his throat-such little fingers as speaking in the air. "I only say that the these?” she held up Faustina's passive hand in appearances are such as to oblige me to take her own, before their eyes. "A man does not steps die in an instant by strangling. He struggles, “If you lay a hand on her- began ho strikes desperate blows, he turns to the Giovanni. right and the left, twisting himself with all his “Do not threaten nie,” interrupted the other might. Could this child have eld him! I ask calmly. My men are outside.' it of your common sense. I ask of your heart Giovanni had advanced towards him with whether a creature that God has made so fair, a menacing gesture. Immediately Faustina's so beautiful, so innocent, could do such terrible sisters-in-law began to whimper and cry with work. The woman who could do such things Iright, while her brothers made undecided would bear the sign of her badness in her face, movements as though wishing to part the two and the fear of what sho had done in her soul. angry men, but afraid to come within arm's She would tremble, she would have tried to length of either. escape, she would hesitate in her story, she "Giovanni !" exclaimed Corona. “ Do not would contradict horself, break down, attenipt be violent-it is of no use. Hear me," she to shed false toars, act as only a woman who added, turning towards the prefect, and at the has committed a first great crime could act. same time making a gesture that seemed to And this child stands here, submitted to this shield Faustina. foarful ordeal, defended by done, but defending "I am at your service, Signora Principessa, herself with the whole innocence of her nature, but my time is valuable." the glory of truth in her eyes, the self-conscious " Hear me I will not detain you long. You courage.of a stalnless life in her heart. Is this are doing a very rash and dangerous thing in assumed ? Is this put on? You have been trying to arrest Donna Faustina, a thing you murderers—it is your office to see them did may repent of. You are to doubt acting as you ever see one like her? Do you not know you believe right, but your heart must tell you the outward tokens of guilt when they are That you are wrong. Look at her face. She is before your eyes! You would do a thing that > SANT', ILARIO 127 * He was is monstrous in absurdity, monstrous in cruelty, obliged to take you also, very much against ryy revolting to reason, outrageous to every instinct will. Donna Faustina Montevarchi, I have the of human nature. Search, inquire, ask ques. honour to arrest you. I trust you will make tions, arrest whom you will, but leave this child no resistance." in peace; this child, with her angel- face, her The semi-comic phrase fell from his lips in fearless eyes, her guiltless heart !” the professional tone ; in speaking of tho arrest Encouraged by Corona's determined manner as an honour to himself, he was making an as well as by the good sonse of her arguments, attempt to be civil according to his lights. He the timid Hock of relations, expressed their made a step forward in the direction of the approval audibly. Giovanni looked at his wife young girl, but Giovanni seized hiin firmly by in some surprise ; for he had never heard her the wrist. He made no effort to release himmake so long a speech before, and had not self, however, but stood still. Auspected her of the ability she displayed. Не Signor Principe, be good enough to let go of was proud of her in that moment and moved my haud." nearer to her, as though ready to support every “ You shall not touch hor," answered Gioword she had uttered. The prefect alone stood vanni, not relinquishing his grasp. unmoved by her eloquence. Ho was accustomed beginning to be dangerous. in his profession to hear far more passionate Signor Principe, release me at once !” said appeals to his sensibilities, and he was moreover the prefect in a commanding tone. Very a man who, being obliged generally to act well, I will call my men,” he addcd, producing quickly, had acquired the habit of acting upon a small silver whistle with his froe hand and the first impulse of his intelligence. For a putting it to his lips. * If I call them, I shall moment his heavy lids were raised a little, have to send you to prison for hindering me in either in astonishment or in admiration, but no the execution of my duty,” he said, fixing his other feature of his face betrayed that he was eyes on Giovanni and preparing to sound the touched. call. Signora Principessa," he said in his usual Giovanni's blood was up, and he would not tone, those are arguments which may be used have let the man go. At that moment, howwith propriety by the persons who will defend ever, Faustina broko from Corona's arms and the accused before the tribunals----" sprang forward. With one hand she pushed Giovanni laughed in his faco. back Sant'Ilario; with the other she seized the “Do you suppose, seriously, that Donna whistle. Faustina will ever be brought to trial !” he “I will go with you !” she cried, speaking to asked scornfully. The prefect kept his temper the prefect. “I will go with him!" she repeated, wonderfully well. turning to Giovanni.“ It is a horrible mistake, “It is my business to suppose so," he answered. but it is useless to oppose him any longer. I "I am not the law, nor his Eminence either, will go, I say ! An hysterical chorus of cries and it is not for mo to weigh the defence or to 'from her relations greeted this announcement. listen to appeals for mercy. I act upon my own Giovanni made a last effort to prevent her responsibility, and it is for me to judge whether fron fulfilling her intention. He was too much the facts are likely to support me. My reputa. cxcited to see how hopeless the situation really tion depends upon my judgment and upon was, and his sense of justice was revolted at the nothing else. The fate of the accused depends thought of the indignity. upor a number of considerations with which I "Donna Faustina, I implore yon!” he exhave nothing to do. I must tell you plainly claimed. “I can still prevent this outragethat this interview must come to an end. I am you nust not go. I will find the cardinal and very patient. I wish to overlook nothing. explain the mistake-he will send an order at Argunients are of no avail. If there is any once. betlar evidence to offer against anyono else in “You are mistaken,” answered the prefect. this house, I am here to tako noto of it." “ He will do nothing of the kind. Besides, you He looked coolly round the circle of listeners. cannot leave this house without my permission. Faustina's relations shrank back a little under The doors are all guardeil." his glance. "But you cannot refuse that request," "Not being able to find any person here who objected Corona, who had not spoken during appears more likely to be guilty, and having the altercation. “It will not take half an hour. found enough to justify me in my course, I for my husband to see his Eminence and get the intend to remove this young lady at onco to the order- Termini." ** Nevertheless I refuse," replied the official * You shall not ! ” said Giovanni, placing firmly. “ Donna Faustina must go with me at himself in front of him in a threatening attitude. once. You are interfering uselessly and making If you attempt anything of the sort, I will a useless scandal. My mind is made up." have you in prison yourself before morning.” “Then I will go with her," said Corona, "You do not know what you are saying, pressing the girl to her side and bestowing a Signor Principe. You cannot oppose me. I have contemptuous glaike on the cowering figures an armed force here to obey my orders, and if around her. you attempt forcible . opposition I shall be By this time her sisters-in-law had fallen into > > [28 SANT ILARIO CH. 70 their rėspective husband's arms, and it was hard very much as she had felt once beforo, on tro to say whether the men or the women were night of the insurrection, when she had found moro hopelessly hysterical. Giovanni rolin- herself lying upon the pavement before the halfquished the contest reluctantly, seeing that he ruined barracks, stunned być the explosion, was altogether overmatched by the prefect's unable for a time to collect her sonses, supported soldiers. only by her physical elasticity, which was yet "I will go too,” he said. "You cannot object too young to be destroyed by any moral shock. to our taking Donna Faustina in our carriage.' "I do not object to that. But male visitors are not allowed inside the Termini prison after dark. The Signora Principessa may spend the night there if it is her pleasure. I will put it gendarme in your carriage to avoid infor. CHAPTER XXII mality." "I presume you will accept my promise to On the following morning all Rome rang with conduct Donna Faustina to the place," observed the news that the Saracinesca had lost their Giovanni. The prefect hesitated. title, and that Faustina Montevarchi lad mur- “It is informal," he said at last, “but to dered her father. No one connected the two oblige you I will do it. You give your word?” events, but the shock to the public mind was so Yes since you are able to use force. We tremendous that almost any incrediblo tale would act under protest. You will remember that." have been believed. The story, as it was Faustina's courage did not forsake her at the generally told, set forth that Faustine had gone last moment. She kissed each of her brothers mad, and had strangled her father in Iris sleep. and each of her sisters-in-law as affectionately Everyone agreed in atfirming that he had been as though they had offered to bear her company. found dead with her handkerchief tied round There were many loud cries and sobs and protes. his neck. It was further stated that the young tations of devotion, but not one proposed to go girl was no longer in the Palazzo Montevarchi, with her. The only one who would have been but had been transferred to the women's prison bold enough was Flavia, and even if she had at the Termini, pending further examination been present she would not have had the heart into the details of the case. The Palazzo to perform such an act of unselfishness. Faustina Montevarchi was draped in black, and before and Corona, Giovanni and the prefert, left the night funeral hatcliments were placed upon room together. the front of the parish church bearing the "I will have you in prison before morning," Montevarchi arms. No one was admitted to said Sant'Ilario, fiercely, in the car of the the palace upon any pretext whatever, though official as they reached the outer hall. it was said that San Giacinto and Flavia had The prefect made no reply, but raised his spent the night there. No meinber of the shoulders almost imperceptibly and smiled for family liad been seen by anyone, and nobody the first time, as he pointed silently to the scemed to know exactly whence the various gendarmes. The latter formed into an oven items of information had been deriver. rank, and tramped down the stairs after the Strange to say, Avery word of what was four persons whom they accompanied. In a few ropeated so freely was true, excepting that part minutes the whole party were on their way of the tale which accused Faustina of having to the Termini, Faustina with her friends in done the deed. What had taken place up to Sant' Ilario's carriage, the prefect in his little the time when Corona and Giovanni had come brongham, the soldiers on their horses, trotting may be thus briefly told. steadily along in a close squad. Princo Montevarchi had been found dead by Faustina sat leaning her head upon Corona's the servant who came to bring a lanıp to the shoulder, while Giovanni looked out of the sturly, towards evening, when it grew dark. window into the dark streets, his rage boiling As soon as the alarm was given a scene of within him, and all the hotter because he was indescribable confusion followed, which lasted powerless to change the course of events. From until the prefect of police arrived, accompanied time to time he uttered savage ejaculations by a party of police officials. The handkerchief which promised ill for the prefect's future peace, was examined and identified. Thereupon, in cither in this world or in the next, but the accordanco with the Roman practice of thut day, sound of the wheels rolling upon the uneven the prefect had announced his determination of paving-stones prevented his voice from reaching taking l'austina into custody. The law took it the two women. for granted that the first piece of circumstantial “Dear child,” said Corona, “ do not be evidence which presented itselt must be acted frightened. You shall be free to-niglit or in the upon with the utmost proniptitude. A fow morning-I will not leave you." questions had shown immediately that Faustine Faustina was silent, but pressed her friend's was the last person who had seen Montevarchi hand again and again, as though she understood. alive. The young girl exhibited a calmniss She herself was overcome by a strange wonder which surprised everyone. She admitted that, ment which made her almost incapable of her father had been angry with her and liad appreciating what happened to her. She felt struck her, but she denied all knowledge of his were, XXII SANT' ILARIO 1 29" death. It is sufficient to say that she fearlessly said. But I have no courge but to obey. . told the truth, so fearlessly as to prejudice even You are Donna Faustina Montevarchi ?” her own family with regard to her. Even the “ Yes--this is the Princess Sant'Ilario." blood on the handkerchief was against her, “Will you come with me? I will give you though she explained that it was her own, and the best room we have—it is not very like a. although the bruise on her lip bore out the prison." statement. The prefect was inexorable. He "This is,” said Faustina, shuddering at the explained that Faustina could be taken privately sight of the massive stone walls, quite as much to the Termini, and that the family might use as from the dampness of the night air. its influence on the next day to procure her "Courage, dear!” whispered Corona, drawing immediate release, but that his duty compelled the girl's slight figure close to her and arranging him for the present to secure her person, that the mantlo upon her shoulders. "But Corona he was responsible, that he was only doing his herself was uneasy as to the result of the duty, and so forth and so on. ghastly, adventure, and she looked anxiously The consternation of the family may be forward into the darkness beyond the nun's imagined. The princess broke down completely lantern. under what seemed very like a stroko of At last they found themselves in a small paralysis. San Giacinto and Flavia were : 70t whitewashed chamber, so small that it was to be found at their house, and as the darriage brightly lighted by the two wicks of a brass had not returned, nobody knew where they oil-lamp on tho table. The nun left them alone, The wives of Faustina's brothers shut at Corona's request, promising to return in the thentselves up in their rooms and gave way to course of an hour. Faustina sat down upon the hysterical fears, while the brothers themselves edge of the littlo bed, and Corona upon a chair e seemed helpless to do anything for their sister. beside her. Until now, the unexpected excite- Seeing herself abandoned by everyone Faustina ment of what had passed during the last three had sent for Corona Saracinesca. It was the or four hours had sustained the young girl. wisest thing she could have done. In a quarter Everything that had happened had seemed to of an hour Corona and her husband entered be a part of a dream until she found herself at the room together. The violent scene which last in the cell of the Termini prison, abandoned followed has been already described, in which by everyone save Corona. Her courage broke Giovanni promised the profect of police that down. Sho threw herself back upon the pillow if he persisted in his intention of arresting and burst into tears. Corona did not know Faustina he should himself be lodged in the what to do, but tried to comfort her as well as Carceri Nuove in twelve hours. But the prefect she could, wondering inwardly what would have had got the botter of the situation, being happened had the poor child been brought to accompaniod by an armed force which Giovanni such a place alone. was powerless to oppose. All that could be “What have I done, that such things should obtained had been that Giovanni and Corona happen to me?" cried Faustina at last, sitting should tako l'austina to the Termini in their up and staring wildly at her friend. Her small carriage, and that Corona should stay with the white hands lay helplessly in her lap and her unfortunate young girl all night if she wished to rich brown hair was beginning to be loosened Giovanni could not be adınitted. and to fall upon her shoulders. The prison of the Termini was under the The tears stood in Corona's eyes. It seemed adıninistration of an order of nuns devoted to her infinitely pathetic that this innocent especially to the care of prisoners. The prefect creature should have been chosen as the victiin arrived in his own carriage sinultaneously with to expiate so monstrous a crime. the one which conveyed his prisoner and her • It will be all cleared up in the morning,' friends. As the gate was opened and one of the she answered, trying to speak chcerfully or at isters appeared, he whispered a few words into least hopefully. "It is an abominable mistake She looked grave at first, and then, of the prefect's. I will not leave you, dear--- when she Faustina's angel face, she take heart, wo will talk-the nun will bring you shook her head'increclulously. The prefect had something to eat-the night will soon pass. :luccoinplishod his duty, however. The prison “In prison !” exclained Faustina, in a touc sates closed after the two ladies, and the of horror and dospair, not lieeding what Corona sentinel outside resumed hits walk, while the said. carriages drove away, the one containing the “Try and fancy it is not officer of the law and the other Giovanni, who “And my father dead !" Slie seemeil sud. llad himself driven at nce to the Vatican, in denly to realise that he was gone for ever. spite of the late hour. The great cardinal “Poor papa ! poor papa!" she nioaned. received him but, to his aniazement, refuſed an I did not mean to be undutiful-indeed I did order of releaso. not-and I can never tell you so now- The sister who admitteil Corona and Faustina “ You must not reproach yourself, darling," took the latter's hand kindly and looked into said Corona, trying to soothe her and to draw her face by the light of the small lantern she the pitiful pale face to her shoulder, while she carried. wound her arm tonderly about the young girl's ." It is some dreadful mistake, my child," she waist. • Pray for him, Faustina, but do not do so. 37 lfur ear. sa v "Oh, . 130 SANT' ILARIO reproach yourself too much. After all, dear, he “Do you love bim very much, dear? was unkind to youasked Corona, when the paroxysm begatt ta "Oh, do not say that-he is dead !” She subside. lowered her voice almost to a whisper as she "I would die for him, and he would die for spoke, and an expression of awe came over her me," answered Faustina simply, but a happy features. “He is dead, Corona. I shall never smile shone through her grief that told plainly see him again-oh, why did I not love him how much dearer to her was he who was left more? I am frightened when I think that he than he who was dead. is dead--who did it?" “Tell me about him," said Corona softly.. The question came suddenly, and Faustina “He is a friend of minestarted and shuddered. Corona pressed her to “Indeed he is. You do not know how he her side and smoothed her hair gently. She worships yon. I think that next to me in the: felt that she must say something, but she world--but then, of course, he could not love: hardly expected that Faustina would under you-besides, you are married.” stand reason. She gathered her energy, how Corona could not help smiling, and yet there ever, to make the best effort in her power. was a sting in the words, of which Faustina “ Listen to me, Faustina," she said, in a tone could not dream. Why could not Giovanni of quiet authority," and try and see all this as have taken this child's straightforward, simple I see it. It is not right that you should view, which declared such a thing impossible reproach yourself, for you have had no share in because Corona was married. What a wealth your father's death, and if you parted in anger of imocent belief in goodness was contained in it was his fault, not yours. He is dead, and that idea! The princess hegart to discover there is nothing for you to do but to pray that a strange fascination in finding out what Faustina he may rest in peace. You have been accused felt for this man, whom she, Corona, had been unjustly of a deed which anyone might see suspected of loving. What could it be like to you were physically incapable of doing. You love such a inan? Ho was good-looking, clever; will be released from this place tomorrow brave, even interesting, perhaps ; but to love morning, if not during the night. One thing is him-Corona suddenly felt that interest in the absolutely necessary- you must be walm and analysis of his character which is roused in us quiet, or you will have brain fever in a few hours. when we are all at once brought into the con- Do not think I am heartless, dear. A worse tidence of someono who can tell by experience thing might have happened to you. You have what we should have felt with regard to a third been suspected by an ignorant man who will person, who has come very near to our lives, pay dearly for his mistake; you might have if he or she had really become a part of our been suspected by those you love." existence. Faustina's present pain and sense of Corona sighed, and her voice trembled with danger momentarily disappeared, as she was the last words. To her, Faustina was suffering drawn into talking of what absorbed her whole far more from the shock to her sensibilities than nature, and Corona saw that by leading the from any real grief. She knew that she had not conversation in that direction she night hope to loved her father, but the horror of his murder occupy the girl's thoughts. and the fright at being held accountable for Faustina seemed to forget her misfortunes in it were almost enough to drive her mad. And speaking of Gouache, and Corona listened and yet she could not bo suffering what Corona had encouraged her to go on. The strong woman suffered in being suspected by Giovanni, she who had suffered so much saw gradually unfolded had not that to lose which Corona had lost, the before her a series of pictures, constituting dominating passion of her life had not been sud. a whole that was new to her. She compredenly burnt out in the agony of an hour, she hended for the first time in her life tho nature was only the victim of a mistake which could of an innocent girl's love, and there was have no consequences, which would leave no something in what she learned that softened her trace behind. But Faustina shivered and turned and bronght the moisture into her dark eyes. paler still at Corona's words. She looked at the delicate young.creature boside. "By those I love? Ah, no! Not by him-- her, scated upon the rough bed, her angelio by them !" The blood rushed to her white face, loveliness standing out against the cold backand her hand fell on her friend's shoulder. growid of the whitewasheri wall. The outlines Corona heard and knew that the girl was seemed almost yaporous, as though molting into thinking of Anastase. She wondered vaguely the transparency of tho quiet air; the gentle whether the hot-headed soldier artist had brown eyes were at once full of suffering and learned the news, and what he would do when full of lovo; the soft, tifok hair fell in disorder he found that Faustina was lodged in a prison. upon her shoulders, in that exquisite dis- " And yetm-perhaps-oh, no! It is impos. order that belongs to beautiful things sible !" Her sweet, low roice broke again, and Nature when they are set free, and fall into was lost in passionate sobbing. the position which is essentially their own For a long time Corona could do nothing to her white fingers, refined and expressive, held calm her. The tears might be a relief to the Corona's slender olive hand, pressing : 10 and girl's overwrought faculties, but they were most moving as they touched it with every word she distressing to hear and see. spoke Corona almost felt that somo spiritual, & soar. XXII . SANT' ILARIO 131 hall divine being had glided down from another bent her head. Faustina watched her in world to tell her of an angel's love. surprise, then slipped from her place on the bed The elder woman thought of her own life, and stood besido her, looking up tenderly into and compared it with what she saw. Sold to the sad dark eyes, from which the crystal drops a decrepit old lrusband who had worshipped her welled up and trickled down, falling upon the in strango, pathetic fashion of his own, she had rough deal boards. spent five years in submitting to an affection "What is it, dcar?" asked the young girl. she loathed, enduring it to the very end, and “Will you not tell me ?" sacrificing every instinct of her nature in the Corona turned and throw her arms round her, performance of her duty. Liberated at last, pressing her to her breast, almost passionately. she had given herself up to her love for Giovanni Faustina did not understand what was in'a passion of the strong kind that never comes happening. in early youth. She asked herself what had "I never saw you cry before !" she exclained become of that passion, and whether it could in innocent astonishment, as she tried to brush over be revived. In any case it was something away the tears from her friend's face. wholly different from the love of which Faustina Ah, Faustina! There are worse things in was speaking. She had fought against it when the world than you are suffering, child!" it came with all her might; being gone, it had Then she macle a great effort and overcamo left her cold and indifferent to all she could still the emotion that had taken possession of her. command, incapable of oven pretending to love. She was ashamed to have played such a part It had passed through her life as a whirlwind when she had come to tho place to give confort through a deup forest, and its track was like to another. What Faustina knew she could never “It is nothing," she said, after a momout's have known-the sudden growth within her of pause. “I think I am nervous--at least, I am something beautiful against which there was no very foolish to let myself cry when I ought to need to struggle, the wholo-hcarted devotion be taking care of you.” from the first, the joy of a lovo that had risen A long silence followed, which was broken at suddenly like the dawn of a fair day, the un- last by the nun, who entered the room, bringing speakable happiness of loving intensely in such poor food as the place afforded. She reperfect innocence of the world, of giving her peated her assurance that Faustina's arrest was whole soul at once and for ever, unconscious tho result of a mistako, and that she would be that there could be anything else to give. certainly libcrated in the morning. Then, seeing I would die for him, and he would die for that the two'friends appeared to be preoccupied, me,' ,"Faustina had said, knowing that her words she bade them good-night and went away. were true. Corona would die for Giovanni now, It was the longest night Corona remembered no doubt, but not because she loved him any to have ever passed. For a long time they longer. She would sacrifice herself for what talked a little, and at length Faustina fell asleep, had been, for the memory of it, for the bitterness exhausted by all sho had suffered, while Corona of having lost it, and of feeling that it could sat besido her, watching her regular breathing not return. That was a state very different and envying her ability to rest. She herself from Faustina's; it was pain, not happiness, could not close her eyes, though she could not despair, not joy, emptiness, not fulness. Her explain her wakefulness. At last she lay down eyes grow sad, and she sighed bitterly, as though upon the other bed and tried to forget herself. oppressed by a burden from which sho could After many hours she lost consciousness for not escape. Faustina's future seemed to her to a time, and then awoke suddenly, half stilled be like a beautiful vision among tho clouds of by the sickening smell of the lamp which had sunrise ; her own like the reflection of a mourn. gone out, filling the narrow room with the odour ful scene in a dark pool of stagnant water. of burning oil. It was quite dark, and the pro- The sorrow of her life rose in her eyes, until found silence was broken only by the sound of the young girl 'saw it and suddenly ceased Faustina's evenly-drawn breath. The poor child speaking. It was liko a reproach to hor, for was too weary to be roused by tho fumes that hor young nature had already begun to forget had disturbed Corona's rest. "But Corona roso ite trouble in the sweetness of its own dream. and groped her way to tho window, which she Corona understood the sudden silence, and.her opened as noiselessly as she could. Heavy iron expression changed, for she felt that if she bars were built into the wall upon the outside, dwelt upon what was nearest to her hcart she and she grasped the cold iron with a sense of could give but poor consolation. relief as she looked out at the quiet stars, and "You are sad," said Faustina. “It is not tried to distinguish the trees which, as she knew, for me what is it?" were plantod on the other side of the desolaté "No: It is not for you, dear child." grass-grown square, along the old wall that C&rona looked at the young girl for a monannt, stood there, at that time, like a fortification and tried to smile. Then sho rose from the between the Termini and the distant city. chair and turned away, pretending to trim the Below the window the sentry tramped slowly brass oil-lamp with the little metal snuffers that up and down in his bodt, his steps alone breakhung from it by a chain." The tears blinded ing the intense stillness of the winter night.. bora She rested her hands upon the table and Corona realised that she was in a prison. There > > 132 SANT ILARIO CH. was something in the discomfort which was not which she struggled even now. There was no repugnant to her, as she held the grating in her relief in weeping, it brought her no sense of fingers and let the cold air blow upon her face. rest, no respite from the dull consciousness of After all, she thought, her life would seen her situation; and yet she could not restrain much the same in such a placo, in a convent, the drops that fell so fast upon Iter hands. She perhaps, where she could be alone all day, all suffered always, without any intermittenco, as night, for ever. She could not be more unhappy people do who have little imagination, with few behind those bars than she has often been in the but strong passions and a constant nature. magnificent palaces in which her existence had There are men and women whose active fancy been chiefly passed. Nothing gave her pleasure, is able to lend a romantic beauty to misfortune, nothing interested her, nothing had the power which gives some pleasure even to themselves. to distract her mind from the aching misery that or who can obtain somo satisfaction, if they are bcset it. She said to berself a hundred times poets, by expressing their pain in grand or a day that such apathy was unworthy of her, tender language. There are others to whom and she blamed herself when she found that sorrow is but a reality, for which all expression even the loss of the great Saracinesca suit left seems inadequate. her indifferent. She did no good to herself and Corona was such a woman, too strong to suffer none to anyone else, so far as she could see, little, too unimaginative to suffer poetically. unless it were good to allow Giovanni to love Thero are those who might say that she exher, now that she no longer felt & thrill of aggerater the gravity of the position, that, pleasure at his coming nor at the sound of his since Giovanni had always been faithful to her, voice. At least slie had been honest. She had acknowledged his error and fepented of it could say that, for she had not deceived him. so sincerely, there was no reason why she should She had forgiven him, but was it her fault if he not love him as before. The answer is very had destroyed that which he now most desired? simple. The highest kind of love not only Was it her fault that forgiveness did not mean implies tho highest trust in the person loved, love ? Her suffering was not the selfish pain of but demands it in return ; the two conditious wounder vanity, for Giovanni's despair would are as necessary to each other as body and soul, have healed such a wound by showing her the so that if one is removed from the other, the strength of his passion. There was no resent- whole love dies. Our relations with our followment in her heart, cither, for she longed to love creatures are reciprocal in effect, whatever him. But even the habit of loving was gone, morality may require in theory, from the combroken away and forgotten in the sharp ayony monest intercourse between mere acqnaintances of an hour. She had done her best to bring it to the bond hetween man and wife. An honest back, she had tried to repeat phrases that had man will always hesitate to believe another once come from her heart with the conviction of unless he himself is believed. Humanity gives great joy, each time they had been spoken. But little, on the whole, unless it expects a return; the words were dead and meant nothing, or if still less will meu continue to give when their they had a meaning they told her of the change gifts have been denounced to them as false, no in herself. She was willing to argue against it, matter what apology is offered after the mistake to say again and again that she had no right to has been discovered. Corona was very þuman, be so changed, that there had been enough and being outwardly cold, she was inwardly to make any man suspicious, that she would more sensitive to suspicion than very expansive have despised him had lo overlooked such con- women can ever be. With women who express vincing evidence. Could a man love truly and very readily what they foel, the expression often not have some jealousy in his nature ? Could assumes such importanco as to deceive them into a man have such overwhelming proof given believing their passions to bo stronger than they him of guilt in the woman he adored and yet are. Corona had given all, love, devotion, show nothing, any more than if she had been faithfulness, and yet, because appeararites hari a stranger ? But the argument was not satis. been against her, Giovanni had doubted her. factory, nor conclusive. If human ills could be Ho hac cut the plant down at tho very root," healert hy the use of logic, there would long and sho had nothing more to give. since have been no unhappiness left in the Faustina moved in her sleor. Corona softly! world. Is there anything casier than to deceive closed the window, and once more lay down to one's self when one wishes to be deceived ? rest. The hours seemed endless as she listened Nothing, surely, provirled that the inner reality for the bells. At last the littlo room grew grey of ourselves which we call our hearts consents to and she could distinguish the furnituro in the the deception. But if it will not consent, then gloom. Then all at once the uoor.opened, and there is no help in all the logic that has been the nyn entered, bearing her little lantern and lavished upon the philosophy of a dozen ages. peering over it to try and see whethor the Her slender fingers tightened upon the freezing occupants of the chamber were awake.* In barn, and once more, in the silent night, her the shadow behind hier Corona could distinguish tears flowed down as she looked up at the stars the figure of a man. through the prison window. The new condition "The prince is here," said the sister in a low of her life sought an expression she had hitherto voice, as she saw that Corona's eyes were open. considerorl as weak and cleapicable, and against Tho latter glanced at Faustina, whose childlika 17 << XXII SANT ILARIO 133 sleep was not interrupted. She slipped from should try to tempt her to love him with such the bed and went out into the corridor. an insignificant bribe--with the hope of liber. The nun would have led the two down to ating the young girl. She did not understand tho parlour, but Corona would not go so far that he was growing desperate. Had she known from Faustina. At their request she opened an what was in his mind she might have made a empty cell a few steps further on, and left supreme effort to deceive herself into the belief Giovanni and his wife alone in tho grey dawn. that he was still to her what he had been so Corona looked eagerly into his cyes for some long. But she did not know. news concerning the young girl. He took her For the sake of her innocence, Giovanni !" hand and kissed it. she exclairned. “Can you let a child like that "My darling--that you should have spent suffer so ? I ani sure, if you really would, you the night in such a place as this !” he exclaimed. could manage it, with your influenco. Do you "Never mind me. Is Faustina at liberty? not see that I am sutiering too, for the girl's Did you see the cardinal ?” sake?" "I saw him." Giovanni shook his head. “Will you say that it is for your sake?” “And do you mean to say that he would not For niy sake--if you will," she cried almost give the order at once ?" impatiently. "Nothing would induce him to give it. The “For your sake, then, he answered. prefect got there before nie, and I was kept “Remember that it is for you, Corona." waiting half an hour while they talked the Before she could answer, he had loft the matter over. Tho cardinal declared to mo that room, without another word, without so much he knew there had been an enmity between as touching her hand. Corona gazed sadly at Faustina and her father concerning her love for the open door, and then returned to Fåustina. Gouache- An hour later the nun entered the cell, with “Her love for Gouache!" repeated Corona a bright smile on her faco. slowly, looking into his eyes. She could not “Your carriage is waiting for you--for you help it. Giovanni turned pale and looked away both,” she said, addressing the princess. as he continued. " Donna Faustina is free to return to her Yes, and he said that the evidence was very mother." strong, since no one had been known to enter the liouse, and the servants were clearly innocent--not one of them betrayed the slightest enibarrassnient.' “In other words, he believes that Faustina CHAPTER XXIII actually did it?" " It looks like it,” said Giovanni in a low When Giovanni Saracinesca had visited Cardinal voice. Antonelli on the previous evening, he had been “ Giovanni ! slie seized his arm. "Do you as firmly persuaded that Faustina was innocent, bolieve it, too?” as Corona herself, and was at first very much “I will believe whatever you tell me. astonished by the view the great man took of “She is as innocent as I !" cried Corona, her the matter. But as the latter developed the eyes blazing with indignation. Giovanni under- case, tho girl's guilt no longer soemed impossible, stood more from the words than she meant to or even improbable. The total absence of any convey ostensible incentive to the murder gave Faus. “Will you never forgive ?” he asked sadly. tina's quarrel with her father a very great “I did not mean that I meant Faustina. importance, which was further heightened by Giovanni-you must got her away from here. the nature of the evidence. Thero had been You can, if you will." high words, in the course of which the Princess “I will do much for you," he answered quietly. Montevarchi had left the room, leaving her " It is not for me. It is for an unfortunate daughter alone with the old man. child who is tho victim of a horrible mistake. had seen him alive after that moment, and I have comforted her by promising that she he had been found dead, evidently strangled should be free this morning. She will go mail with her handkerchief. The fact that Faus.. if she is kept here." tina had a bruise on her arm and a cut “Whatever I do, I do for you, and I will do on her lip pointed to the conclusion that nothing for anyone else. For you or for no a desperate struggle had taken place. The one, but I must know that it is really for you.' ” cardinal argued that, although she might not Corona understood and tumped away. It was have had the strength to do the deed if the broad daylight now, as she looked through the contest had begun when both were on their feot, grating of the window, watching the people it was by no means impossible that so old a man who passed, without seeing them. might have been overcome by a young and "What is Faustine Montevarchi to me, com- vigorous girl, if she had attacküd him when he pared with your love ?" Giovanni asked. was in his chair, and was provented from rising Something in the tone of his voice made her by the table before hifi. As for the monstrosity look at him. She saw the intensity of his of the act, the carclinal merely smilod when , foeling in his eyes, and she wondered that he Giovanni alluded to it. Had not fathers been No one 134 SANT İLARIO murdered by their children before, and in Rome? upon the floor, and knotted it offeetually round The argument had additional weight, when the old man's neck. What could ha do in my Giovanni remembered Faustina's wild behaviour hands! The study is far from the other rooms: on the night of the insurrection. A girl who the family inhabit, and is near the hall. To go was capable of following a soldier into action, quietly out would not have been a difficult and who had spent hours in searching for him matter for anyone who know the house. . Your after such an appalling disaster as the explosion Eminence knows as well as I the shallownóss of of the Serristori barracks, might well be subject circumstantial evidence." to fits of desperate anger, and it was by no "And do you tell me, calmly, like this, that means far from likely, if her father had struck you murdered a belpless old man out of her in the face from his place at the tablo, that revenge?" asked the cardinal, half indignantly; she should have laid violent hands upon him, lialf incredulously. seizing him by the throat, and strangling hini “ Would I surrender myself as the murderer with her handkerchief. Her coolness afterwards for a caprice ?" inquired Giovanni, who was might be only a part of her odd nature, for she very pale. was undoubtedly eccentric. She might be mad, The cardinal looked at him and was silent for said the cardinal, shaking his head, but there a few moments. He was puzzled by what he was every probability that she was guilty. In hoard, and yet his common sense told him that those days there was no appeal from the states he had no course but to liberate Faustina and man's decisions in such matters. Faustina would send Giovanni to prison. He felt, too, that he remain a prisoner until she could be tried for ought to experience an instinutive repulsion for the crime. the man before him, who by his own showing, His Eminence was an carly riser, and was not had been guilty of such a horrible crime; but altogether surprised that Giovanni should come he was conscious of no such sonsation. He was to him at such an hour, especially as he know a man of exceedingly quick and true intuitions, that the Princess Sant'Ilario had spent the who judged the persons with whom he had night with Faustina in the Termini prison. business very accurately. There was a lack of He was altogether taken aback, however, by correspondence betweon his intelligence and his Giovanni's manner, and by the communication feelings which roused his curiosity. he made. " You have told me a very strange story," he “I had the honour of telling your Eninence said. last night that Donna Faustina Montevarchi was "Legs strange than the one your Eminence innocent," began Giovanni, who refused the has believed since last night," returned Giovanni offer of a seat. "I trusted that she might be calmly: liberated immediately, but you liave: determined "I do not know. It is more easy for me to otherwise. I am not willing that an innocent believe that the girl was momentarily out of her person should suffer unjustly. I have come, mind than that you, whom I have known all my therefore, to surrender myself to justice in this life, should have done such a thing. Besides, in telling me your story, you have never once The cardinal stared, and an expression of positively asserted that you did it. You have unmitigated astonishment appeared upon his only explained that it would have been possible delicate olive features, while his nervous hands for at man so disposed to accomplish tho murder grasped the arms of his chair. unsuspected. " You ! " he cried. Is a man obliged to incriminate himself “I, your Eminence. I will explain myself. directly? It seems to me that in giving myself Yesterday the courts delivered their verdict, , up I have done all that a man's conscience can declaring that my cousin San Giacinto is Prince possibly require-outside of the confessional. Saracinesca, instead of my father, and trans- I shall be tried, and my lawyer will do what he ferring to him all our hereditary property. The can to obtain my acquittal." man who found out that there was " That is poor logic. Whether you confess or against us, and caused it to be brought to trial, not, you have accused yourself in a way that Was Prince Montevarchi. You may, perhaps, must tell against you very strongly. You really understand my resentment against him. If you leave me no choice." recollect the evidence which was detailed to you "Vour Eminence has only to do what last night, you will see that it was quite possible I request, to liberate Donna Faustina and to for me to go to him without being observed. send me to prison." The door chanced to be open, and there was no " You are a very strange man, said tho one in the hall. I am perfectly acquainted with cardinal in a musing tone, as he leaned back the house. Several hours elapsed between tho in his chair and scrutinised Giovanni's pale, time when Donna Faustina left her father and impenetrable face. the moment when he was found dead in his "I am a desperate man, that is all." chair. You can understand how I could enter "Will you give me your word of honour that the room unseen, how angry words naturally Faustina Montevarchi is innocent ??? must have arisen between us, and how, losing "Yes," answered Giovanni without the my self-control, I could have picked up Donna slightest hesitation, and meeting the gaze of Faustina's handkerchief which, as she says, lay the cardinal's bright eyes unfinchingly. case. > а. case very little." man SANT' ILARIO 135 The latter patined a moment, and then turned had said that he was desperate. No other word 'in his chair and taking a piece of paper wroto could describe his state.“ A sort of madness had a few words upon it. Then he rang a little taken possession of him while he was talking hard-bell that stood beside him. His servant with Corona, and he was still under its influence. entered, as he was folding and sealing the note. There had been something in her manner which "To the Termini prison," he said. had seemed to imply that he was not doing his The messenger haul better tako my carriage," best to liberate Faustina, and, indeed, when he observed Giovanni. “I shall not need it remembered that the girl's innocence was by no again." means clear to him, he ought not to have been "Take Prince Sant'Ilario's carriage," added surprised at Corona's imputation. And yet he the cardinal, and the man left the room. "And had now pledged his word to the cardinal that 'Uow," he continued, “will you be good enough L'austiva had not done the deed. Corona's to tell me what I am to do with you ?” unwillingness to admit that it was for her own " Send me to the Carceri Nuove, or to any sake she asked his help had driven him nearly convenient place." out of his mind, and when she had at last said "I will do nothing that can be an injury it, even reluctantly, he had immediately resolved to you hereafter,” answered the statesman. to show her what ho was willing to do for one Something tells me that you have had nothing word of hers when she chose to speak it. He to do with this dreadful murder. But you must had from that moment but one thought, to frce. kuow that, though you may deceive me--I am Faustina at any cost, and no plan suggested uot omniscient-I will not tolerate any contempt itself to him but to surrender himself in the of tho ways of justice. You have surrendered girl's place. As a matter of fact, he could not yourself as the criminal, and I intend to take havo accomplished his purpose so quickly or you at your word.” surely in any other way, and perhaps he coull ." I ask for nothing else. Put me where you not have otherwise accomplished it at all. It please, do what you please with me. It matters had been quite clear to him from the first that the cardinal was prejudiced against Faustina, • You act like a who has had an owing, no doubt, to the representations of the unfortunate love affair,” remarked the cardinal. prefect of police. Giovanni had carried the "It is true that you have just lost your evidence against her clearly in his mind, and as fortune, and that may account for it. But soon as he thought of the expedient he saw how I repeat that, whatever your motives may be, it would have been quite possible for himself, or you shall not trifle with the law. You wish to for any other man who knew the house, to be a prisoner. The law will oblige you so far as commit the murder, As for the detail conto comply with your request. I warn you that. cerning the doors being open, there was nothing after this, you can only . obtain your freedom improbable in it, seeing that there were many through a proper trial.' servants in the establishment, and that each “Pray let it be so. My motives can be of one would suspect and accuse one of his com. no importance. The law shall judge the facts panions of the carelessness. Nothing was easier and give its verdict.” than to construct the story, and he had supposed "The law will certainly do so. In the mean that nothing would be simpler than to make the timo, you will spend the day in a room of cardinal believe it. He had been surprised to my apartinents, and this evening, when it is find hiniself mistaken upon this point, but he dark, jou will be quietly transferred to a place felt a thrill of triumph that more than repaid of salöty- and secrecy. If the real murderer is him for what he had done when he saw the over found, I do not wish your life to have been messenger leave the room with the order to ruined by such a piece of folly as I believe you liberate Faustina. Corona had spoken, had are committing. You say you are a desperate asked him to do a hard thing for her sake, and man, and you are acting, † think, as though you her (aprice was satisfied, it mattered little at Your family affairs may have led to this what cost. She had given him an opportunity state, but they do not concern me. You will, of showing what he would do for her, and that however, bo good enough to swear, here, opportunity had not been thrown away. solemnly, laying your hand upon this book, that But as he sat alone in the little room the you will not attempt to destroy yourself.". cardinal had assigned to him, he began to realise "I swear," said Giovanni, touching the volume the magnitude of what he had been doing, and which the cardinal presented to him. to see how his actions would be judged by "" Very good. . Now follow mo, if you please, others. He had surrendered himself as a mur. to the room where you must spend the day.' derer, and was to be treated as one. When the Giovanni found himself in a small chamber time came for the trial, might it not happen which contained only a large writing-table and with him as with many another innocent man a couple of chairs, and which seemed to have who has put himself into a false position ? been destined for some sort of office. The Might he not be condemned ? Nothing that he cardinal closed the door, and Giovanni heard could say hereafter could remove the impression him tum the key and remove it from the lock. created by his giving himself up to justice. Thew, fov the first time, he reflected upon what Any denial hereafter would be supposed to he had done. He had spoken the truth when he proceed from fear, and not from innocence. were, >> 136 SANT'. ILARIO CH. on <And if he were. condemned, what would become Corona again. liis love for her was still upperof Corona, of his father, of little Orsino ? He most in his mindl, and instead of trying to shuddered at the thought. explain what had occurred,eho found himself What, he asked himself, would be the defence? setting down phrases that told of nothing but Yesterday afternoon he had been out of the a mad passion. The thought of her cold face house during several hours, and had walked when she should read the lines arrested his alono, he hardly remembered where. Since the hand, and he threw down the pen impatiently, crisis in his life which had separated him from and returned to his meditations for a while. Corona in fact, if not in appearance, he often What he wanted to do was to tell her in the walked alone, wandering aimlessly through the fewest possible words that he was alive and streets. · Would any of his acquaintance come well. What else should ho tell her! Tlie forward and“swear to having scen hirn at the statement would allay any anxiety she might time Montevarchi was murdered? Probably feel, and his absence would doubtless be a relief not. And if not, how could it be proved, in to her. The thought was bitter, but ho knew the face of his own statement to the cardinal, that nothing exasperates a woman like tho that he might not have gone to the palace, constant presence of a man sho has loved, who seeking an opportunity of expending his loves her moro than ever, and for whom she no wrath the oll prince, that he might longer feels anything. At last he took another not have lost his self-control in & fit of sheet of paper and tried again. anger and strangled the old man as he sat in his chair? As he himself had said, there “Dear Corona,---When you get this, Faustina was far more reason to believe that the Sara- will be at liberty, according to your wish. Do cinesca had killed Montevarchi out of revenge, not be anxious if you do not see me for a fow than that a girl like Faustina should have days, as I am called away on urgent business. strangled her own father because he had inter. Tell my father, and any of our friends who ask fered in her love affairs. If the judges took about mo, that I am at Saracinesca, superintendthis view of the case, it was clear that Giovanni ing the removal of such oflects as are not to go would have little chance of an acquittal. The to San Giacinto. I will let you know when thing looked so possible that even Corona might I am coming back.--Your affectionato believe it-even Corona, for whose sake he had GIOVANNI." rushed madly into such desperate danger. And to-day she would not see him; very Ho read the note over twice, and then foldeu possibly she would not know where he was. it, addressing it to his wife. His face expressed And to-morrow? And the next day? And all the most profound dojection when he had the days after that? He supposed that he finished his task, and for a long time he leaned would be allowed to write to her, perhaps to see back in his chair, gazing at the morning sunher, but it would be hard to explain his position. light that slowly crept across the floor, whilo She did not love him any longer, and she would his hands lay folded passively upon tho table. not upderstand. He wondered how much she The end of his love scemed very bitter as he would care, if she really cared at all, beyond a thought of the worils he had written. A few discreet anxiety for his safety: She would weeks ago to leave Corona thus unexpectedly certainly not comprehend a love liko his, which would have caused hor the greatest pain. Now, had chosen such a sacrifice, rather than allow he felt that he need say nothing, that it would her wish to remain ungratified. How could be useless to say anything, more than ho had she, since she did not love him? And yet it said. It was nothing to her whether he stayed was imperatively necessary that she should be in Rome or went to the ends of the earth ; informed of what had happened. She might indeed, he suspected that she would bo glad to otherwise suppose, naturally enough, that some be left alone-unless she should discover why accident had befallen him, and she would in he had gono, and whither. This lasu conthat case apply to the police, perhaps to the sideration recalled to him his situation, and for cardinal himself, to find out where he was. a moment he was horrified at his own rashness. Such a contingency must be prevented, by But the thought did not hold him long, and some means, before night. Until then, she presently he asked himself apathetically what would not be frightened by his absence. There it could matter in the end. The hours passed would be time, perhaps, when he was removed slowly, and still he sat motionless by the table, to the prison--to the place of safety and secrecy, the folded letter lying before hin. of which the cardinal had spoken, and which in The cardinal had scarcely returned to his all probability was the Holy Officc. No ques. study when a second card was brought to him. tions were asked there. The gentleman, said the servant, had assured There were writing materials on the broad him that his Eminence would receive him, as he table, and Giovanni began a letter to his wife. had important information to give concerning After a few minutes, however, he stopped, for the niurder of Prince Montevarchi. The carrlinal he saw from what he had written that he was could not repress a smile as he read the name of in no condition to attempt such a task. The Anastase Gouache. words came quickly and Auently, but they ex. The young man entered the room, and pressed what he had no intention of telling advanced in obedience to tho cardinal's friendly.'

> " " << > XXIII SANT' ILARIO 137 gesture. He was as pale as death, and his soft and for a moment he was almust unconscious of dark eyes had an expression of despair in them where he was. The cardinal's voice recalled such as the great man had rarely seen. For the him to himself. rest, he wore his uniform, and was as carefully “If you doubt what I tell you, you need only dressed as usual. go to the Palazzo Montevarchi and inquire. " Your Eminence has doubtless heard of this Donna Faustina will return with the Princess dreadful murder? began Gouache, forgetting Sant'Ilario. I am sorry that circumstances all formality in the extremity of his excite- prevent me from showing you the man who has ment. confessed the crime. He is in my apartments “Yes," said the cardinal, sitting down. “You at the prosent moment, separated from us only have something to communicato concerning it, hy two or three rooms. I understand.” “His name, Eminence ? asked Gouache, " Donna Faustina Montevarchi has been whose whole nature seemed to have changed charged with the crime, and is in the prison of in a moment. the Termini," answered the Zouave, speaking “Ah, his name must for the present remain hurriedly. “I am here to ask your Eminence a secret in my keeping, unless, indeed, you havo to order her release without delayreason to believe that someone else did the “On what grounds ?" inquired the statesman, murder. Have you no suspicions? You know raising his eyebrows a little as though surprised the family intimately, it seems. You would by the way in which the request was made. probably have heard the matter montioned, if “ Because she is innocent, because her arrest the deceased princo had been concerned in any was due to the mistake of the prefect of policom quarrel--in any transaction which inight have the evidence was against her, but it was absurd made him an object of hatred to anyone we to suppose that she could have done itknow. Do you recall anything of the kind ? 'The prefect of police received my approval. Sit down, Monsieur Gouacho. You are acquitted, Have you any means of showing that she is you see. Instead of being a murderer you are innocent?" the good friend who once painted my portrait Showing it?" repeated Gouache, who looked in this very room. Do you remember our dazed for a moment, but recovered himself charming conversations about Christianity and immediately, turning white to the lips. “What the universal republic ? could be easier?” ho exclaimed. “The murderer “I shall always remember your Eminence's is before you.I saw tho prince, I asked him for kindness," answered Gouache, seating himself his daughter's hand in marriage, he insulted me. and trying to speak as quietly as possible. His I left the room, but I returned soon afterwards. nervous nature was very much unsettled by I found him alone, and I killed him-I do not what had occurred. Ho had come determined know how Ldid it. that Faustina should bo liberated at any cost, “ With Donna Faustina's handkerchief," overcomo by the horror of her situation, ready suggested the cardinal. Perhaps you do not to lay down his life for her in the sincerity of ronenber that it was lying on tho floor and his devotion. His conduct had been much more that you picked it up and knotted it rational than Giovanni's. Ho had nothing to Yes, yos! Round his neck," cried Gouache lose but himself, no relations to be disgraced by nervously. “I remember. But I saw red, every- his condemnation, none to suffer by his loss. thing swam, the details are gone. Here I am He had only to sacrifice himself to set froo your Eninence's prisoner-I implore you to sond for ever the woman he loved, and he had not the order at once !" hesitated a moment in the accomplishment of The cardinal had hitherto maintained a grave his purpose. But the revulsion of feeling, when expression. His features suddenly relaxed and he discovered that Faustina was already known he put out his hand. to be innocent, and that there was no need for My dear Monsieur Gouache, I like you ex his intervention, was almost moro than he could ceedingly," he said. “You are a man of heart.” bear. The tears of joy stood in his eyes while “I do not understand " Anastase was very he tried to be calm. much bewildered, but he saw that his plan for “ Have you any suspicions ? » asked tho freeing Faustina was on the point of failure. cardinal again, in his gentle voice. "I appreciate your motives” continued the “None, Eminence. The only thing approachstatesman. “ You love the young lady to dis. ing to a quarrel, of which I have heard, is the traction, she is arrested on a capital charge, you suit about tho title of the Saracinesca. But of conceive the idea of presenting yourself as the course that can have nothing to do with the murderer in her place matter. It was decided yesterday without “But I assure your Eminence, I swear. opposition. No," interrupted the other, raising his hand. "It could have nothing to do with tho murder, Do not swear. You are incapablo of such you think?" inquired the statesman with an air a crine. Besides, Doma Faustina is already at of interest. liberty, and the author of the deed has already "No. How could it?" Gouache laughed åt confessed his guilt.". The idea. "The Saracinesca could not murder Anastase staggered against the projecting shelf their enemies as they used to do five hundred of the bookcase. The blood rushed to his face yoars ago. Besides, your Eminence has got the 66 >> 9 138 ASANT' ILARIO 10$ (nurderer and must be able to guess better than than send all those others to eternal Hamas I what were the incentives to the crime." Should I not be justified in blowing out hiy "That does not follow., my friend. A man brains ?" who confesses a misdeed is not bound to incrimi. The cardinal did not know whether to smile or .nate anyone else, and a man whose conscience to look grave. He was neither a priest. nor is sensitive enough to make him surrendor him- a theologian, but a statesman. self naturally assumes tho blame. Ho suflers "My dear friend," he answered at last. “The remorse, and does not attempt any defence, ingenuity of your suppositions passes belief. excepting such as you yourself just now gave I can only say that, when you find yourself in me, when you said that tho prince had insulted such a bad case as you describe, I will submit the you. Erough to give a semblance of truth to matter for you to the Holy Father himself, the story. By the bye, is that true?” But I would strongly advise you to avoid the * It is and it is not answered Gouache, situation if you possibly can. blushing a little. "The poor inan, when I Gouache took his leave with a light heart, began to explain any position, thought-how little guessing as he descended the great marble shall I say? He thought I wanted to sell him staircase that Giovami Saracinesca was the a picture. It was not his fault." prisoner of whom the cardinal had spoken su ** Poor man!” sighed the cardinal. “He inysteriously, still less that he, too, had falsely had not much tact. And so, Monsieur Gouache, accused himself of having killed poor old Monteyou think that the great Saracinesca suit has varchi. He wondered, as he walked rapidly had nothing to do with the murder ?” along the streets in tho bright morning sunshine, “It seems to me impossible. It looks rather who the man was, and why ho hau, done such as though he had been murdered by a servant, a thing, but his thoughts, were really with out of spite. It is hard to believe that anyone Faustina, and he longed to see her, and to hear not belonging to the house could have dono it." from her own lips the true version of what had “I think the public will agree with you. I happenel. will occupy myself with the matter. Perhaps I have got the man safe in that room, but who knows? If you had come first, you might have gone to the Carceri Nuove instead of hini. After | CHAPTER XXIV all, he may be in love too." The cardinal smiled, but Gouache started at ARNOLDO MESCHINI was fully conscious of what the suggestion, as though it hurt him. he had dono when he softly closed the door of “I doubt that,” he said quickly. the study behind him and returned to the So do I. It would be a strange coincidence library; but although he know and realised if two innocent men had accused theniselves of that he had murdered his employer, he could the same crime, out of love, within twenty-four not explain the act to himself. hours of its being committed. But now that throbbed painfully, and there was a bright red you are calm-yes, you were beside yourself spot in each of his sallow cheeks. Ho shuffled with excitement-I must tell you that you have about from one bookcase to another, and his done a very rash thing indeed. If I had not hands trembled violently as he touched the big chanced to be a friend of yours, what would volumes. Now and then he glanced towards have beconie of you! I cannot help liking your one or the other of the doors, expecting at evory courage and devotion--you have shown it in moment that someone would enter to tell him sterner matters, and in the face of the enemy... tho news, if, indeed, anyono at such a time but you might have destroyel yourself. That should chance to remember the existence of the would have been a great sin." humblo librarian. His brain was on fire and *“Is there no case in which a man may destroy scemed to burn the sockets of his eyes. And himself deliberately?" yet the time passed, and no one came. Thc “You speak of snicide? It was almost that suspense grew to be unbearable, and he felt that you contemplated. No. The church teaches he would do anything to escape from it. Howont Chat a man who takos his own life goes straight to the door and laid his hand upon the latch. to fiell. So does Mohammed, for that matter." For an instant the flush disappeared from his “ In any case?”. cheeks, as a great fear took possession of him. In any case. It is a mortal sin." He was not able to face the sight of Monte- But," objected Gouache, let us suppose varchi's body lying across that table in the silent me a very bad man, exercising a destroying study. His hand fell to his side, and he almost influence on many other people. Suppose, in ran to the other side of the library; then, as short, for the sake of argunient that my life though ashamed of his weakness, he came back causedl others to lose their own souls, and that slowly and listened at the door. It was scarcely by killing myself I knew that they would all possible that any distant echo could reach hia ne good again. Suppose then, that I sud-ears, if the household had been already rgused denly repented, and that thero was no way of' for the passage was long and tortuous, inter saving these people but by my own suicidd. rupted by other doors and by a winding staircasa Would it not be more honourable in me to say, But in his present stato he fancied that his *Very well, I will submit to damnation rather süngen must be preternaturally, slarponed, and $ His templos 66 SĄNT' ILARIO 139 he listened eagerly. All was still. He went breathed hard, but he could not go back and back to the books. leave the door unclosed. With a suppressed There was nothing to be done but to make sob of agony he thrust' out his head and arm. a desperate effort to occupy himself and to In a moinent it was over, but the moral effort steady his nerves. If anyone came now, he had been terrible, and his strength failed him, thoughts, his face would betray him. There so that he staggered against the wainscot and must be a light in his eyes, an uncertainty in would have fallen but for its support. his manner, which would speak plainly enough Some moments elapsed before he could got to to his guilt. Ho tried to imagine what would a chair, and when he at last sat down in a ray of take place when the body was found. Someone sunshine to rest, his eyes remained fixed npon would enter the room and would see the body. the sculptured brass handle of the latch. He He, or she, would perhaps think that the prince almost expected that it would turn-mysteriously was in a fit, or asleep--who could tell? But he of itself and that the clead prince would enter would not answer the voice that called him. the room. Ho realised that in his present Then the person would come forward and touch condition he could not possibly face the person him-Meschini forced himself to think of it— who, before long, would certainly bring him the would touch the dead hand and would feel that news. He must have something to stimulate it was cold. With a cry of horror the person him and deaden his nerves. He had no idea would hasten from the room. He might hear how long a time had elapsed since he had done that cry, if he left the door open. Again he the deed, but it seemed that three or four hours laid his hand upon the latch. His fingers nust certainly have passed. In reality it was seemed paratysed and the cold sweat stood on scarcely five-and-twenty minutes since he had his face, but he succeeded in mastering himself left the study. He remembered suddenly that enough to turn the handle and look out. The he had some spirits in his room at the top of the cry came, but it was from his own lips. He palace. Slowly and painfully he rose to his reeled back from the entrance in horror, his eyes feet and went towards the other exit from the starting from his head. There stood the dead library, which, as in many ancient houses, man, in the dusky passage, shaking at him the opened upon the grand staircase, so as to give håndkerchief. free access to visitors from without. He had It was only his fancy. He passed his hand to cross the broad marble landing, whence across his forehead and a sickly look of relief a masked door led to the narrow winding steps crept over his face. He had been frightened by by which he ascended to the upper storey. He his own coat, that lung on a peg outside, long listened to hear whether anyone was passing, and thin and limp, a whito handkerchief and then went out. Once on his way he moved depending from the wide pocket. There was more quickly than seemed possible for a man so not much light in the corridor. He crept bent and mis-shapen. cautiously out and took tho garment from The bright afternoon sun streamed in through its place with a nervous, frightened gesture, the window of his little chamber, à relief from Dragging it after him, he hastily re-entered the the sombre glooniness of the lofty library, where library and rollerl up the coat into a shape that the straggling rays seemed to make the great could not possibly resemblo anything which hall more shadowy by contrast. But Meschini mnight frighten him. He laid it upon the table did not stop to look about him. In a closet in in the brightest place, where the afternoon sun the wall ho kept his stores, his chemicals, his fell upon it. There was a sort of relief in carefully-composed inks, his bits of prepared making sure that the thing could not again look parchment, and, together with many other like the dead man. He looked up and saw with articles belonging to his illicit business, he had renewed terror that he had left the door open. a bottle of old brandy, which the butler had There was nothing but air between him and the once given him out of the prince's cellar, in place where that awful shadow had been return for a bit of legal advico which had saved conjured up by his imagination. The door must the servant a lawyer's fee. Arnoldo Meschini be shut. If it remaineil open he should go mad. had always been a sober man, like most Italians, He triod to think calmly, but it was beyond his and the bottle had stood for years unopened in power. He attempted to say that thero was the cupboard. He had never thought of it, but, nothing there and that the door might as well having been onco placed there, it had been safe. remain open as be shut. But even while making The moment had como when the stimulant was the effort to reason with himself, he was precious. His fingers shook as he put the bottle creeping cautiously along the wall, in the his lips; when he set it down they were dirsotion of the entrarte. By keeping his eyes steady. The liquor acted liko an enchantment, close to the wooden panelling he could gdvance and the sallow-faced man smiled as he sat alone without seeing into the corridor. He was by his little table and looked at the thing that within a foot of the opening. Convulsed with had restored him. The bottle had been full foar, be put out his hand quickly and tried to when he began to drink; the level of the liquid pull the heavy oak on its hinges by the was now a good hand's breadth below the neck. projeeting bevel, but it was too heavy-he must The quantity he had swallowed would have Look out in order to grasp the handle. The, made a temperate man, in his normal state, cold drops trickled down from his brow and he almost half drunk.

140 SANT' ILARIO CH, He sat still for a long time, waiting to see it had hung always, where he always left it whether the draught would produce any other when he came in the morning, unless he needed effect. He felt a pleasant warmth in his face it to keep himself warm. What could be and hands, the perspiration had disappeared simpler, or easier ? He took the thing in from his brow, and he was conscious that he one hand, turned the handle and looked could now look out of the open door of the out. He was not afraid. The long, silent library without fear, even if his coat were corridor stretched away into the distance, hanging on the peg. It was incredible to him lighted at intervals by narrow windows that that he should have been so really terrified by opened upon an inner court of the palace, & nero shadow. He had killed Prince Monte. Meschini suspended the coat upon tho peg and varchi, and the body was lying in the study. stood looking before him, a contemptuous smile Yes, he could think of it without shuddering, upon his face, as though he despised himself for almost without an unpleasant sensation. In his former fears. Then he resolutely walked the dead man's own words, it had been an act towards the study, along the familiar way, down of divino justice and retribution, and since a flight of steps, then to the right-ho stood nobody could possibly discover the murderer, before the door and the dead man was on the there was matter for satisfaction in the idea other side of it. He paused and listened. All that the wicked old man no longer cumbered was silent. the earth with his presence. Strange, that he It was clear to him, as he stood before tho should have suffered such an agony of fear half table and looked at the body, that no one had an hour earlier. Was it half an hour? How been there. Indeed, Meschini now remembered pleasantly the sun shone in to the little rooin that it was a rulo in the house never to disturb whore ho had laboured during so many years, the prince unless a visitor came. He had always and so profitably! Now that the prince was liked to spend the afternoon in solitude over his dead it would be amusing to look at those accounts and his plans. The librarian pause original documents for which he had made such opposite his victim, and gazed at tho fallen head skilfully-constructed substitutes. He would and the twisted, whitenca fingers. lle put out like to assure himself, however, that the deed his hand timidly and tonched them, and was had been well done. There was magic in that surprised to find that they were not quite cold. old liquor, Another little draught and he The touch, however, sent a very unpleasant would go down to the study as though nothing thrill through his own frame, and he drew back had happened. If he should ineet anybody his quickly with a slight shiver. But he was not casy nanner would disarm suspicion. Besides, terrified as he has been before. The touch only he could take the bottle with him in the pocket was disagreeable to him. He took a book that of his long coat the bottle of courage, he said lay at hand and pusliced it against the dead to himself with a smile, as he set it to his lips. man's arm. There was no sign, no niovement. This time he drank but little, and very slowly. He would have liked to go behind the chair and He was too cautious a man to throw away his untie the handkerchief, but his courage was not ammunition uselessly. quite equal to that. Besides, the handkerchior With a light heart he descenıled the winding was Faustina's. lIc had seen her father snatch stair and crossed the landing. One of Ascanio it from her and throw it upon the floor, as he Bellegra's servants passed at that moment. watched the pair through the keyhole. A surango Meschini looked at tlie fellow quietly, and even fascination kept him in the study, and he would gave him a friendly smile, to lost his own have yielded to it had he not been fortified coolness, a civility which was acknowledged by against any such morbid folly by the brandy he a familiar nod. The librarian's spirits rose. had swallowed. lle thought, as he turned to · Ho did not resent the familiarity of the footman, go, that it was a pity the prince never kept for, with all his learning, he was little more money in the house, for, in that case, he might than a servant himself, and the accident hand have helped himself before leaving. To steal come conveniently as a trial of his strength. a small value was not worth wnile, considering The man evidently saw nothing unusual in his the danger of discovery. appearance. Moreover, as he walked, the Jle moved on tiptve, as thoughi afraid of disbrandy bottle in his coat-tail pocket beat turbing the rest of his old employer, and once reassuringly against the calves of his legs. He or twice he looked back. Then at last he closed opened the door of the library and found himself the door and retrâced his steps through the in the scene of his terror. corridor till he gained the library. He was sur- There lay the old coat, wrapped togother on prised at his own boldness as he went, and at the table, as he had left it. The sun had moved the indifference with which he passed by the a little farther during his alisence, and the heap coat that hung, limp as ever, upon its peg. He of cloth looked innocent enough, Meschini was satisfied, too, with the result of his investi. could not understand how it had frightened gations. The prince was certainly dead. 6 As him so terribly, He still felt that pleasant a direct consequonce of his death, the secret of warmth about his face and hands. That was the Saracinesca suit was now his own; to one the door before which he had been such a had a share in it, and it was worth money. He coward. What was beyond it? The empty pulled out a number of volumes from the passage. He would go and hang the coat where shelves, and began to mako a pretence of --- XXIV SANT ILARIO 141 working upon the catalogue. But though he forgeries he afterwards executed during the surrounded himself with the implements and night, hoarding his ill-gotten gains with joalous necessaries for his task, his mind was busy with secrocy, afraid to show to his few associates the new scheme triat unfolded itself to his that he had accumulated a little wealth, timid imagination. by force of long habit and by the remembrance He, and he alone, knew that San Giacinto's of the shame in his early life. All that had posscesion of the Saracinesca inheritance rested disappeared under the potent spell of his newupon a forgery, The fact that this forgery found courage. He fancied himself living in some niust be rovealed, in order to reinstate the distant capital, rich and respected, married, lawful possessors in their right, did not detract perhaps, having servants of his own, astonishing in the least from the value of the secret. Two the learned men of some great centre by the courses were open to him. He might go to old extent of his knowledge and eruditiv. All the Leone Saracinesca and offer the original docu. vanity, of his nature was roused from its long ments for sale on receiving a guarantee for his sleep by a new set of emotions, till he couli own safety. Or ho might offer them to San scarcely contain his inexplicable lappiness. And (Hiacinto, who was the person endangered by how had all this come to him so suddenly in the their existence. Montevarchi had promised him midst of his obscure life? Simply by squeezing twenty thousand scudi for the job, and liad the breath out of an old man's throat. How never paid the money. He had cancelled his easy it had been. debt with his life, however, and had left the The unaccustomed energy which had been secret behind himn. Either Saracinesca or San awakened in him by the spirits brought with it Giacinto would give five times twenty thousand, a pleasant restlessness. He felt that he must ten times as much; perhaps, for the original go again to his little room upstairs, and take jlocuments, the one in order to recover what out the deeds and read them over. The sight was his own, tho other to keep what did not of them would give an increased reality and belong to him. The great question to be con- vividness to his anticipations. Besides, too, it sidered was the way of making the offer. was just barely possible that there might be Meschini sat staring at the opposite row of some word, some expression which he could books, engaged in solving the problem. Just change, and which should increase their value. then, one of the open volumes before him slipped To sit still, poring over the catalogue in the a little upon another, and the page turned library was impossiblo. Once more he climbed slowly over. The librarian started slightly, and to his attic, but he could not comprehend why glanced at the old-fashioned type. The work he felt a nervous desire to look bohind hin, as was a rare one, which he had often examined, though he were followed by some person whose and he knew it to bo of great value. A new tread was noiseless. It was not possible, ho thought struck him. Why should he not sell thought, that the effects of his draught were this and many other volumes out of the collec- already passing off. Such courage as ho felt in tion, as well as realise money by disposing of his him could not leave him suddenly. He reached secret? He might as well be rich as possess his room and took the deeds from the secret a more competence. place in which he had hidden then, spreading He looked about hins. With a little care and them out lovingly before him. As he sat down wingenuity, by working at night and by visiting the bottle in his long coat touched the floor the sellers of old books during the day he might behind him with a short, dull thud. It was as soon put together four or five hundred works though a footstep had sounded in the silent which would fetch a high price, and replace room, and he sprang to his feet before he realised them by so many feet of old trash which would whence the noise came, looking behind him with look as well. With his enormous industry it startled eyes. In a moment he understood, and would be a simple matter to tamper with the withdrawing the bottle from his pocket he set it catalogue and to insert new pages which should beside him on the table. He looked at it for correspond with the changes he contemplated. a few seconds as though in hesitation, but he The old prince was dead, and little as he had determined not to have recourse to its contents really known about the library, his sons knew so soon. He had undoubtedly been frightened qyen less. Meschini could remove the stolen again, but the sound that had scared him had volumes to a safe place, and when he had been real and not imaginary. Besides, he had realised the value of his secrot, he would go to but this one bottle and he knew that good Paris, to Berlin, even to London, and dispose of brandy was dear. He pushed it away, his his treasures one by one. He was amazed at avarice helping him to resist the temptation. the delights the future unfolded to him, every The old documents were agreeably familiar to thing seemed gilded, everything seemed ready his eye, and he read and re-read them with to turn into gold. His brain dwelt with an increasing satisfaction, comparing them careenthusjasm wholly new to him upon the dreams fully, and chuckling to himself each time that it conjured up. Ho felt twenty years younger. he reached the bottom of the sheet upon the His fears had gone, and with them his humility: copy, where there had been no room to introduce He saw himselt no longer the poor librarian in that famous clause. But for that accident, he his slippers and shabby clothes, cringing to his reflected, he would have undoubtedly made the Comployer, spending his days in studying the insortion upon the originals, and the latter would 142, SANT' ILARIO CH. fio now no longer in his possession. He did not separated him from tho passage he experienced quite understand why he derived such pleasure no disagreeable sensation, but turned his back from reading the writing so often, nor why, upon it at the end of his walk and retraced his when the surrounding objects in the room were steps. Very gradually, however, he began to clear and distinct to his eyes, the crabbed feel uncomfortable as he reached that extremity characters should every now and them seem to of the room, and the vision of the dead prince move of themselves and to run into each other , rose beforo his eyes. The coat was there again, from right to left. Possibly the emotions of the on the other side of the door. No doubt it day had strainer his vision. He looked up and would take the same shape again if he looked saw the bottle. An irresistible desire seized him at it. His varying, courage was just at the to taste the liquor again, even if he drank but point when he was able to look out in order to à drop. The spirits wet his lips while he was himself that the limp garment had not still inwardly debating whether it were wise to assumed the appearance of a ghost. He felt drink or not. As he returned the cork to its a painful thrill in his back as he turned the place he felt a sudden revival within him of all, hanelle, and the cold air that rushed in as he The had experienced before. His face was warm. opened the door scemed to come from a tomb. his fingers tingled. He took up one of the | Although his eyes were satisfied when ho had deeds with a firm hand and settled himself seen the coat in the corner, he drew back comfortably in his chair. But he could not quickly, and the thrill was repcated with read it through again. He laughed qnietly at greater distinctness as he heard the bolt of tho his folly: Did he not know every word by latch slip into its socket. Ho walked away heart? He must occupy himself with planning, again, but the next time he came back he turned with arranging the details of his futuro. When at some distance from the threshold, and, as he that was done he could revel in the thought of turned, he felt the thrill a third time, almost wcalth and rest and satisfied vanity. like an electric shock. IIe could not bear it To his surprise, his thoughts did not flow and sat down before the catalogue. His eyes connectedly as he had expected. He could not refused to read, and after a lengthened struggle help thinking of the dead man downstairs, not between his fears, his prudence and his economy, indeed with any terror, not feuring discovery he once more drew the bottle from his pooket for himself, but with a vague wonderment that and fortified himself with a draught. This made his mind feel empty. Turn over the matter' time he drank more, and tlie effect was different. as he would, he could not foresce connectedly For some seconds he felt no change in his conwhat was likely to happen when the murder was dition. Presently, however, his norvousness known. There was no sequence in his imagin-, lisappeared, giving place now to a sort of ings, and he longer nervously for the monient stupid indifference. The light was fading from when everything should be settled. The rest- the clere-storey windows of the library, and, lessness that had brought him up to his room within, the corners and recesses were already demanderl some sort of action to quiet it. (lark. But Meschini was past imagining ghosts He would willingly have gone out to see his or apparitions. Ho snt quite still, his chin friend, the little apothecary who lived near the leaning on his hand and his elbow on tho table, Ponte Quattro Capi. It would be a relief to wondering vaguely how long it would be talk to someone, to hear the sound of a human beforo they came to tell him toat the voice. But a remnant of prudience restrained prince was dead. He did not sleep, but he him. It was not very likely that he should be fell into a stato of torpor which was restful suspected; indeed, if he behaved prudently to his nerves. Sleep would certainly come in nothing was more inprobable. To leave the half an hour if he were left to himself as long as house at such a time, however, would be the that. His breathing was heavy, and the silence height of folly, unless it cauld be proved that around him was intense. At last the muchhe had gone out some time before the deed dreaded moment came, and found him dull and could have been done. The porter was vigilant, apathetic. and Meschini almost always exchanged a few The door opened and a ray of light from words with him as he passed through the gates. a candle entered the room, which was now He would certainly note the time of the almost dark. A footman and a housemai. librarian's exit more or less accurately. More- thrust in their heads cautiously and peered into over, the body might have been found already, the broad gloom, 'holding the candle high before. and even now the gendarmes night be down them. Either would have been afraid to come stairs. The latter consideration determined alone. him to descend once more to the library. "Sor Arnoldo, Sorrnoldo 1" the man called A slight chill passed over him as he closed the out timidly, as though frightened by the sound door of his room behind him. of his own voice. The great hall now secmcd very gloomy and “Here I am," answered Meschini, affecting cold, and the solitude was oppressive. He felt a cheerful tone as well as he could. Once more the necessity for inovement, and began to walk and very quickly he took a mouthful from the quickly up and down Che length of the library bottlo, behind the tablo where they could not between the broad tables, from one door to the see him. “ What is the matter?" he asked. other. At first, as lie reached the one that “The prince is murdered 1” cried the two $ ..

XXV SANT' ILARIO 143 >> servants in a breath. They were very pale as a promise to come back in tho course of the day, they came towards hin. she went home to rest. If the cry he utterod was forced they were She needed repose even more than Faustina, too much terrified 'co notice it. As they told who, after all, had slept soundly on her prison their tale with every species of exaggeration, bod, trusting with chilellike faith in her friend's interspersed with expressions of horror and promise that she should be free in the morning. amazement, he struck his hands to his head, Corona, on the contrary, had passed a wakeful moaned, criod aloud, and, being half hystorical night, and was almost worn out with fatigue. with drink, shed real tears in their presenco. She renained in her room until twelve o'clock, Then thoy led him away, saying that the prefect the hour when the members of the family met of police was in the study and that all the at the midday breakfast. She found her father. household had been summoned to be examined in-law waiting for her, and at a glar.ce she saw by him. He was now launched in his part, and that he was in a savrlgc humour. His bronzed could play it to tho cnd without breaking face was paler than usual, and his movements down. He had afterwards very littlo recollec- more sudden and nervous, while his dark eyes tion of what had occurred. 11e remembered I gleamed angrily beneath his bent and shaggy that the stillness of the study and the white brows. Coront, on her part, was silent and faces of those present had impressed him by preoccupied. In spite of the tragic events of contrast with the noisy grief of tho servants the night, which, after all, only aftected her who had summoned him. He remembered that indirectly at present, and in spite of the conhe had sworn, and others had corroborated his stant moral suffering which now played so oath, to the effect that he had spent the after- important is part in her life, sho could not but poon betweeri tho library and his room. Ascanio be clisturbed by the tremendous loss sustained Bellogrn's footnan remembered meeting him on by her husband and by his father. It fell most the landing, and said that he had smiled heavily upon the latter, who was an old man, pleasantly in an unconcerned way, as usual, and and whose niind was not engaged by any other had passed on. For the rest, no one seemed absorbing consideration, but the blow was a cven to imagine that he could have done the terrible one to the other also. decd, for no one had ever heard anything but « Where is Giovanni? asked Saracinesca friendly words. between him and the prince. brusquely, as they sat down to the table. He remembered, too, having seen the dead body “I do not know," answered Corona. "The extendal upon the great table of the study, and last I heard of him was that he was with Cardinal he recalled Donna Faustina's tone of voice Antonelli. I suppose that after getting the indistinctly as in a dream. Then, before the order to release Faustina he stayed there." prefect announced his decision, he was dismissell "So his Eminence suffered himself to bo perwith the other servants. suaded that a little girl did not stranglo that After that moment all was a blank in his old sinner,” remarked the prince. mind. In reality he returned to his room and Apparently Ant down by his table with a candle before him. If they had taken Flavia it would have been Ho never knew that after tho exanıination he more natural. She would have inaugurated her had begged another bottle of liquor of the butler reign as Princess Saracinesca by a night in the i the g:ound that his nerves were upset by the Termini. Delightful contrast! I suppose you terrible event. About midnight the candle know who did it?" burned down into the socket. Profiting by the "No. Probably a servant, though they say Last ray of light he drank a final draught and that nothing was stolen." reeled to his bed, dressed as he was. One bottle “San Giacinto did it. I have thought the was empty, and a third of the second was gone. whole matter out, and I am convince of it. Arnoldo Meschini was dead drink. Look at his hands. Jle could strangle an clephant. Not that ho could have har any particular reason for liquidating his father-inlaw. He is rich enough without Flavia's share, but I always thought he would kill somebody one CHAPTER XXV of these days, ever since I met him at Aquila." Without any reason, why should he have Corona was not much surprised when the done it?" messenger brought her carriage and presented “My dear child, when one has no reason to the order for Faustina's liberation. When givo, it is very hard to say why a thing occurs. Giovanni had left her shailiad felt that he would He looks liko the nan. find means to procure the young girl's liberty, "Is it conceivable that after getting all ho and the only thing which seemed strange tu her could desire he should endanger his happiness · was the fact that Giovanni did not return him. in such a way?" self. The messenger said he had seen him with "Perhaps not. I believe he did it. What the cardmal and that Sant Ilario had given the an abominable omelet-a glass of water, Pasquale. order to use tho carriago. Beyond that, he Abominable, is it not, Corona! Perfectly ineatknow nothing. Corona at once took Faustina able. I suppose the cook has licard of our to the Palazzo Montevarchi, and then, with misfortunes and wants to leare."

. 66 1440 SANT' ILARIO CH. "I fancy we are not very hungry,” romarked "In a Christian spirit, no doubt. I know Corona, in order to say somothing. you are good. But you do not love him as you “I would like to know whether the murderer did. It is useless to deny it. Why should is eating his breakfast at this moment, and you? I do not blamo you, I am sure. whether he has any appetito. It would be The prince fixed his bright eyes on her face interesting from a psychological point of view. and waited for her answor. She turned a little By-tho-bye, all this is very like a jettatura.” paler and said nothing for several moments. * What?" Then as he watched her he saw the colour mount "Montevarchi coming to his end on the very slowly to her olive cheeks. She herself could day he had won the suit. In good old times, it hardly have accounted for the unwonted blush, would have been Giovanni who would have cut and a man capablo of more complicated reasoning his throat; after which we should have all than her father-in-law would have misinterpreted retired to Saracinesca and prepared for a siege. it. Corona had at first been angry at the Loss civilised, but twice as human. No doubt thought that he could speak as he did of they will say now--even now-that we paid Giovanni, saying things sho would not say to a nian to do the work." herself concerning him. Then she folt a curious “But it was San Giacinto.who brought the sensation of shame at being discovered. It was suittrue that she did not love her husband, or at It was Montevarchi. I have seen my lawyer least that she believed herself unable to love this morning. He says that Montevarchi sent him; but she was ashamed that anyone else the people out to Frascati to see San Giacinto should know it. and explained the whole matter to them before Why will you persist in talking about the hand. He discovered tho clause in tho deeds matter?" she asked at length. "It is between first. San Giacinto never even saw them until us two," is everything was ready. And on the evening of “It seems to me that it concerns me, the very day when it was settled, Montevarchi returned Saracinesca, who was naturally peris murdered. I wonder that it has not struck tinacious. “I am not inquisitive. I ask no anyone to say we did it.* questions. Giovanni has said very little about • You did not oppose the suit. If yon had, it to me. But I am not blind. He came to me it would have been different." one evening and said he was going to take you "How could I oppose the action? It was away to the mountains. He socmed very much clear from the beginning that we had no chance disturbed, and I saw that there had been trouble of winning it. The fact remains that we are between you, and that he suspected you of turned out of our home. The sooner we leave something. He did not say so, but I knew this the better. It will only be harder to go if what he meant. If it hart turned out true we stay here." I think I would have-well, I would not have Yes," answered Corona sadly. "It will be answered for my conduct. Of course I took harder." his part, but you fell ill, and did not know that. “I believe it is a judgment of heaven on When he camo and told me that he had been mis- Giovanni for his outrageous conduct," growled taken I abused him like a thief. I have abused the prince, suddenly running away with a new him ever since whenever I have had a chance. idva. It was a vile, dastardly, foolish, ridiculous- "On Giovanni?" Corona was roused im · For Heaven's sake!" cried Corona, inmetliately by the mention of her husband in terrupting him. “Pray, pray leave the question such a connection, iu peace ! I am so unhappy “Yes, for his behaviour to you, the young "So am I," answered Saracinosca bluntly. scoundrel! I ought to have disinherited him at “It does not add to my happities to know that my son has made an ass of himself. Worse than “Please do not talk in that way. I cannot that. You do not seem to realise that I am let you say----" very fond of you. If I had not been sich an Ho is my own son, and I will buy what old man I should have fallen in love with you as I please,” interrupted Saracinesca fiercely. well as Giovanni. Do you - romember when "He treated you outrageously, I say. It is I rode over to Astrardente, and asked you to just like a woman to deny it and defend her marry him? I would have given all I am--all husband.” I was worth, I mean, to be in Giovanni's shoes “Since there is no one else to defend him, when I brought back your answer. Bah! I am I must. He was misled, and naturally, enough, an old fellow and no Apollo either! But you considering the appearances. I did not know have been a good daughter to me, Corona, and that you knew about it all.' I will not let anyone behave badly to you. “I do not know all, nor half. But I know bave been good to me...80 good! enough. A man who suspects such a woman as Bīt you must not be angry with Giovanni. Ho. you descrves to be hanged. Besides," he adiled was misled. He loved me oven then." irrelevantly, but with an intuitive keenness that “I wish I were as charitable as you.? startled Corona, besitles, you have not forgiven “Do not call me charitable. I am anything him. but that. If I were I would » Sho stopped “ Indeed I haveshort. V > once. 66 "And you 19 XXV SANT' ILARIO 145 ! fast.” Yes, I know, you would love him as you did as you say, that it would need more time. before. Then you would not be Corona, but I told them that there was no time, and that if someone else. I know that sort of argument. they could not do it, I would employ someone But you cannot be two persons at one time. else. They talked of sitting up all nightmas if The other woman, whom you have got in your I cared whether they lost their beauty sleep or mind, and who would love Giovanni, is a weak- not! A week from to-day everything must be minded kind of creature who bears anything settled, so that I have not in my possession and everything, who will accept any sort of a penny that does not belong to me. excuse for an insult, and will take crodit to And then--what will you do?" asked herself for being long-suffering because she has Corona, who saw in spite of his vehemence how not the spirit to be justly angry. Thank heaven much he was affected by the prospect. you are not like that. If you were, Giovanni And then? What then? Live somewhere would not have had you for a wife nor I for å else, I suppose, and pray for an easy death." daughter. No one had ever heard Leone Saracinesca say "I think it is my fault. I would do anything before now that he desired to die, and the wish in the world to make it otherwise.' seemed so contrary to the nature of his character • You admit the fact then? Of course. It that Corona looked earnestly at him. His face is a misfortune, and not your fault. It is one was discomposed, and his voice had trembled. more misfortune among so many: You may Ho was a brave man, and a very honourable one, forgive him, if you please. I will not. By. but he was very far from being a philosopher. the-bye, I wonder why he does not come back. As he had said, he had expended all his calmness I would like to hear the news. in that one meeting with San Giacinto when he “The cardinal may have kept him to break. had been persuaded of the justice of the latter's claims. Since then he had felt nothing but "Since seven o'clock this morning ? That is bitterness, and the ontward expression of it impossible. Unless his Eminence has arrested was either an unreasonable irritation concerning him on charge of the murder." The old gentle small matters, or some passionate outburst like man laughed grufiy, little guessing how near the present against life, against the world in his jost lay to the truth. But Corona looked which he lived, against everything. It is up quickly. The mere idea of such a horrible scarcely to be wondered at that he should have contingency was painful to her, absurd and felt the loss so deeply, more deeply even than wildly inprobable as it appeared. Giovanni. He had been for many years the sole "I was going to ask him to go up to head and niaster of his house, and had borne all Saracinesca to-morrow and see to the changes,” the hereditary dignities that belonged to his continued the prince. station, some of which were of a kind that pleased "Must it be so soon?" asked Corona regret. his love of feudal traditions. For the money he fully. "Is it absolutely decided? Have you cared little. The loss that hurt him most not yielded too casily? touched his pride, and that generous vanity which 'I cannot go over all the arguments again," was a part of his nature, which delighted in the returned her father-in-law with some impatience. honour accorded to his name, to his son, to his “There is no doubt about it. I expended all son's wife, in the perpetuation of his race and my coolness and civility on San Giacinto when in a certain dominating independence, that he came to see mo about it. It is of no use to injured no one and gave himself immense satiscomplain, and we cannot draw back. I suppose faction. At his age he was not to be blamed for I might go down on my knees to the Pope and such feelings. They proceeded in reality far ask his Holiness for another title--for the more from habit than from a vain disposition, privilege of being called something, Principe di and it seemed to him that if he bore the calamity Cavolfiore, if you like. But I will not do it. bravely ho had a right to abuse his fate in his I will die as Leone Saracinesca. You can give own language. But he could not always keep Giovanni your old title, if you please--it is himself from betraying more emotion than he yours to give. cared to show. “He sliall have it if he wants it. What does “Do not talk of death,” said Corona. it matter? I can bo Donna Corona." “Giovanni and I will make your life happy and Ay, what does it matter, provided we havo worth living." She sighed as she spoke, in spite peace ? What does anything matter in this of herself. unutterably ridiculous world -- except your “Giovanni and you!" repeated the prince happiness, poor child ! Yes. Everything must gloomily. · But for his folly--what is the use bo got ready.. "I will not stay in this house of talking? I have much to do. If he comes to another week." you this afternoon, please tell him that I want “ But in a week it will be impossible to do him." all there is to be dono !” exclaimed Corona, Corona was glad when the meal was ended, whose feminine mind foresaw infinite difficulties and she went back to her own room. She had in moving. promised to go and see Faustina again, but Possible, or impossible, it must be accom- otherwise she did not know how to occupy plished. I have appointed this day week for herself. A vague uneasiness beset her as the handing over the property. The lawyers said, time passed and her husband did not come 22 66 60 146 SANT ILARIO CH. lfunie. It was unlike him to stay away all day “ We cannot discuss that matter here," without warning her, though she was obliged to answered Corona, speaking more coldly than confess to herself that she had of late shown she mcant to do. very little interest in his doings, and that it “ I trust there need be no discussion. I even would not be very surprising if he began to do hope that you will bear me no ill-will." as he pleased without informing her of his "I bear you none. You have acted honestly intentions. Nevertheless she wished he would and openly. You had right on your side. But show himself before evening. The force of habit neither my husband nor I will live under was still strong, and she missed him without a borrowed name. quite knowing it. At last she made an effort San Giacinto seemed hurt by her auswer. against her apathy, and went out to pay the He stood aside to allow her to pass, and there promisdd vixit. was something dignified in his demeanour that The Montevarchi household was subdued pleased Corona. under all the outward pomp of a pondorous "The settlement is not mado yet," he said mourning. The gates and staircases were hung gravely. "Until then the name is yours. with black. In the vast antechamber the canopy When she was gone he looked after her with was completely hidden by an enormous hatch- an expression of annoyance upon his face. He ment, before which the dead prince had lain in understood well enough what she felt, but he state during the previous night and a part of the was very far from wishing to let any unpleasantday. According to the Roman custom the body ness arise between hiin and her family. Even had been already removed, the regulations of in tho position to which he had now attained he the city requiring that this should be donc felt that there was an elenient of uncertainty, within twenty-four hours. The great black and he did not feel able to dispense with the pedestals on which the lights had been placed good-will of his relations, merely because he was • were still standing, and lent a ghastly and Prince Saracinesca and master of a great fortune. sepulchral appearance to the whole. Numbers His early lifo had made him a cautious man, and of servants in mourning liveries stood around he did not underestimate the value of personal an immense copper brazier in a corner, talking influence. Moreover, he had not a bad heart, together in low toves, their voices dying away and preferred if possible to be on good terms altogether as the Princess Sant'Ilario entered with everybody: According to his own view the open door of the hall. The man who came he had done nothing more than clain what was forward appeared to be the person in charge of legitimately his, but he did not want the enmity the funeral, for Corona had not seen him in the of those who had resigned all into his hands. house before. Corona went on her way and found Faustina “Donna Faustina expects me," she said, and Flavia together. Their mother was not continuing to walk towards the entrance to the able to see anyone. The rest of the family had apartments. gone to the country as soon as the body had "Your Excellency's name?" inquired the man. been taken away, yielding without any great Corona was surprised that he should ask, and resistance to the entreaties of their best friends wondered whether even the people of his class who, according to Roman customi, thought it already knew the result of the suit. necessary to “ divert" the mourners. That is “Donna Corona Saracinesca,” she answered, the consecrated phrase, and people of other in distinct tones. The appellation sounded countries may open their eyes in astonishment strange and unfamiliar. at the state of domestic relations as revealed by “Donna Corona Saracinesca,' the man repeated this practice. It is not an uncommon thing for in a loud voice a second later. He had almost the majority of the family to go away even run into San Giacinto, who was coming out at before death has actually taken place. Spcak. that moment. Corona found herself face to face ing of a person who is dying, it is not unusual with her cousin. .". You may imagine how ill ho is, for “You-princess !” he exclaimed, putting out the family has left him ! The servants attend his hand. In spite of the relationship, he was the Requiem Mass, the empty carriages follow not privileged to call her by her name. “ You -- the hearso to the gates of the city, but the why does the man announce you in that way?” family is already in the country, trying to Corona took his hand, and looked quietly "divert” itself. into his face. They had not met since the Travia and Faustin, however, hud stayed at decision. home, partly because the old princess was really "I told him to do so. I shall be known by 100 deeply moved and profoundly shocked to go that nanie in future. I have come to seo away, and partly becausk San Giacinto refused Faustina.” She would have passerl on. to leave Rome. Faustina, too, was ecceutric "Allow me to say,” said San Giacinto, in his enough to think such haste after " diversion" deep, calm voice, 'that as far as I am concerned altogether indecent, and she herself had been you are, and always shall be, Princess Sant' through such a series of emotions during the İlario. No one can regret more than I the twenty-four hours that she found rest needful. position in which I am placed towards you and As for Flavia, she took matters very calmly, yours, and I shall certainly do all in my power but would have preferred very much to be with to prevent any such unnecessary changes.' her brothers and their wives. The calamity to say, XXV SANT' ILARIO 147* had for the time subdued her vivacity, though Flavia in great astonishment and some angex it was easy to see that it had made no deep “I am sure I loved poor papa as much as any impression upon der nature. If the truth were of you, and perhaps a great deal better. We told, she was more unpleasantly affected by were always such good friends!” thus suddenly meeting Corona than by her Faustina raised her eyebrows a little and father's tragic death. She thought it necessary loukal at Corona as though to say that her to be more than usually affectionate, not out of sister was hopeless, and for some minutos. itu calculation, but rather to get rid of a disagree, ono spoke. able impression. She sprang forward and kissed You are quite rested now?" asked Corona Corona on both chocks. at last, turning to the young girl. “Poor “I was longing to seo you !" she said child! what you must have suffered !! enthusiastically * You have been so kind to “It is strange, but I am not tired. I slept, Faustina. I am sure wo can never thank you you know, for I was worn out." enough. Imagine, if she had been obliged to “Faustina's grief did not keep her awake," spend the night aloue in prison! Such an observed Flavia, willing to say something disabominable mistake, too. I hope that dreadful agreeable. man will be sent to the galleys. Poor little "I only came to see how you were," said Faustina! How could anyone think she could Corona, who did not care to prolong the interdo auch a thing !" view. “I hope to hear that your inother is Corona was not prepared for Flavia's manner, better to-morrow. I mot Saracincecu as I came and it grated disagreeably on her sensibilitics. in, but I did not ask him." But she said nothing, only returning the saluta "Your father-in-law!" asked Haustina innotion with becoming cordiality before sitting cently. “Illid not know ho had been hore.' down between the two sisters. Haustina looked "No; your husband, niy dear," answered on coldly, disgusted with such indifference. It Corona, looking at Flavia as she spoke. She struck her that if Corona had not accompanied was curious to see what effect the chango had her to the Termini, it would have been very produced upon lier. Flavia's checks fuslied hard to induce any of her own family to do so. quickly, evidently with pleasure, if also with “ And poor papa!" continued Flavia volubly. some enbarrassment. But Corolil was calm and "Is it not too dreadful, too horrible? To think unmoved as usual. of anyono daring! I shall never get over the “I did not know you already called him so," impression it made on mo--never. Without said Flavia. “How strange it will be !” a priest, without anyone--poor dear!" “We shall soon get used to it," replied "Ileaven is very merciful,” said Corona, Corona, with a smilo, as she rose to go. “I thinking it necessary to mako such wish you many years of happiness with your remark, Good-bye." Faustina went with Oh, I know," answered Flavia, with sudden her into one of the outer rooms. seriousness. "I know. But poor papar you "Tell me," she said, when they were alone, see--I am afraid - “how did your husband manage it so quickly! She stopped significantly and shook her head, They told me to-day that the cardinal had at evidantly implying that Prince Montevarchi's first refuserl. I cannot understand it. I could chances of blessccuess were but slender. not ask you before Flavia --she is 80 in- “Flavia !” cried Faustina indignantly, “how quisitivo!" can you say such things !” “I do not know. I have not seen Giovanni Oh, I say nothing, and besides, I dare say— yet. Ho stayed with the cardinal when the you sce he was sometimes very kind. It was carriage came for us. It was managed in some only yesterday, for instance, that he actually way, and quickly. I shall hear all about it this promised those earrings -- you know, evening. What is it, dear?" Faustina, the pearl drops at Civilotti's--it is There were tears in Faustina's soft eyes, true, they were not so very big after all, le followed quickly by a little sob. really said he would give them to me as a “I miss him dreadfully!" she exclaimed, souvenir if-oh! I forgot. laying her head on her friend's shoulder. “And She stopped with some embarrassment, for I am so unhappy! We parteil angrily, and she had been on the poipt of saying tlat tho I can never toll him how sorry I am. You do carrings were to be a remembrance if the suit not think it could have had anything to do with were won, when she recollected that she was it, do you?” speaking to Corona... “ Your little quarrel ? No, child. What "Weil-it would have been very kind of him could it have changed? We do not know what if ho had," sho added. “Perhaps tha? is some- happened.” t);ing. Poor papa! One would feel moro sure "I shall never forget his face. I was dreadabout it if ho had got some kind of absoľution.” fully undutiful-oh! I could almost marry that "I do not believe you cared for him at all!" man if it would do any good !” oxclaimed Faustina. Corona evidently shared Corona smiled sadly. The young girl's sorrow this belief, for she lookod very grave and was was gepuine, in strange contrast to Flavia's silent. voluble flippancy. She laid her hand allection. "Oh, Faustina, how unkind you are !” crieri ately on the thiok chestnnt hair, sono new name. me 148 SANT ILARIO CH Perhaps he sees now that you should not a collection of books, and, on the whole, he had marry against your heart." done far more than was expocted of him:* “Oh, do you think so? I wish it were Prince Montevarchi had neves proposed to give possible. I should not feel as though I were him an assistant, and he would have rejected 80 bad if I thought he understood now. I could any such offer, since the presence of another bear it better. I should not feel as though it person would have made it almost impossible were almost a duty to marry Frangipani." for him to carry on his business of forging Corona turned quickly with an expression ancient manuscripts. The manual labour of his that was almost fierce in its intensity. She illicit craft was of course performed in his own took Faustina's hands in hers. room, but a second librarian could not have Never do that, Faustina. Whatever comes failed to discover that there was something to you, do not do that! You do not know what wrong. Night after night he carried the precious it is to live with a man you do not love, oven if manuscripts to his chamber, bringing them back you do not hate him. It is worse than death." and restoring them to their places every morn. Corona kissed her and left her standing by ing. During the day he studied attentively the door. Was it possible, Faustina asked, what he afterwards executed in the quiet hours that Corona did not love her husband? Or was when he could be alone. Of the household none she speaking of her former lifo with old Astrar- but the prince himself ever came to the library; dente? Of course, it must be that. Giovanni no other member of the family cared for the and Corona were a proverbially happy couplo. books or knew anything about them. His When Corona again entered her own room, employer boing dead, Moschini was practically there was a note lying upon the table, the one master of all the shelves contained No one her husband had written that morning from his disturbed him, no one asked what he was doing. place of confinement. She tore the envelope His salary would bo paid regularly by the open with an anxiety of which she had not stoward, and he would in all probability be left believed herself capable. She had asked for to vegetate unheeded for the rest of his natural him when she returned and he had not been lifetime. When he died someone else would heard of yet. The vague uneasiness she had be engaged in his place. In the ordinary course folt at his absence suddenly increased, until she of events no other future would have been open felt that unless sho saw him at onco she must to him. go in search of him. Sho read the note through He awoke very late in the morning on the again and again, without clearly understanding day after the murder, and lay for some time the contents. wondering why he was so very uncomfortable, It was evident that he had left Rome suddenly why his head hurt him, why his vision was and had not cared to tell her whither he was indistinct, why he could remember nothing he going, since the instructions as to what she was had done before going to bed. The enormous to say were put in such a manner as to make it quantity of liquor ho had drunk had temporarily evident that they were only to serve as an estroyed his faculties, which were not hardened excuse for his absence to others, and not as an by the habitual use of alcohol. He turned his explanation to herself. The note was enigmatical head uneasily upon the pillow and saw the and might mean almost anything. At last bottles on the table, the candle burnt down in Corona tossed the bit of paper into the fire, the brass candlestick, and the general disorder and tapped the thick carpet impatiently with in the room. He glanced at his own body, and her foot. saw that he was lying dressed upon his bed. "How coldly he writes!” she exclaimed aloud. Then the whole truth flashed upon his mind with The door opened and her maid appeared. appalling vividness. A shock went through his “Will your Excellency receive Monsieur system as though someono had struck him Gouache ?" asked the woman from the threshold. violently on the back of the head, whilo the “No! certainly not!" answered Corona, in light in the room was monicntarily broken into a voice that frightened the servant. "I am not flashes that pained his eyes. He got upon his at home." feet with difficulty, and steadied himself by the "Yes, your Excellency." bed-post, hardly able to stand alone. He had murdered his master. The first moment in which he realised the fact was the most horriblo he reinembered to have passed. He had killed the prince, and could recall CHAPTER XXVI nothing, or next to nothing, that had occurred since the deed. Almost Sofore he knew what The amount of work which Arnoldo Meschini he was, doing, he had locked his door with did in the twenty-four hours of the day depended a double turn of the key, and was pushing the almost entirely upon his inclinations. The furnitare against it, the table, the chairs, every. library had always been open to the public once thing that he could move. It seemed to him a week, on Mondays, and on those occasions that he could already hear upon the winding the librarian was obliged to be present. The stair the clank of the gens d'armes' sabres es rest of his time was supposed to be devoted to they came to get him. He lookod wildly round the incessant labour connected with so important the room to see whether there was anything 22 XXVI 149 SANTILARIO that could lead to discovery. The unwonted join, and he arrayed himself in the best he had exertion, however, had restored the circulation a decent suit of broadcloth, a clean shirt, a black of his blood, and with it arose an indistinct tie. Ho looked at himself in the craoked memory of the sense of triumph he had felt mirror. His face was ghastly yellow, the whites when he had last entered the chamber. He of his eyes injected with blood, the veins at the asked himself how he could have rejoiced over temples swollen and congested. He was afraid the deed, unless he had unconsciously taken that his appearance might excite remark, though steps for his own safety. The body must have it was in reality not very much changed: been found long ago. Then, as he thought of this, he realised that Very gradually there rose before him the he was to meet a score of persons, some of vision of the scene in the study, when he had whom would very probably look at him curiously. been summoned thither by the two servants, His nerves were in a shattered conaition; he the dead prince stretched on the table, the pale almost broke down at the mere idea of what he faces, the prefect, Donna Faustina's voice, must face. What would become of him in the a series of questions asked in a metallic, pitiless presence of the reality? And yet he had met tone. He had not been drunk, therefore, when the whole household bravely enough on the they had sent for him. And yet, he knew that very spot where he had done the murder on the he had not been sober. In what state, then, previous evening. He sat down, overpowered had he found himself. With a shudder, he by the revival of his fear and horror. The room remembered his terror in the library, his fright swan around him, and he grasped the edge of at the ghost which had turned out to be only the table for support. But he could not stay his own codt, his visit to his room, and the first there all day. Any reluctance to make his draught he had swallowed. From that point appearance at such a time might be fatal. onwards his memory grew less and less clear. There was only one way to get the necessary He found that he could not reinember at all courage, and that was to drink again. He how he had come upstairs the last time. shrank from the thought. He had not acquired One thing was evident, however. He had not the habitual drunkard's certainty of finding been arrested, since he found himself in his nerve and boldness and steadiness of hand in chamber unmolested. Who, then, had been the morning draught, and the idea of tasting taken in his place? He was amazed to find that the liquor was loathsome to him in his disordered he did not know. Surely, at the first inquest, state. He rose to his feet, and tried to act as something must have been said which would though he were in the midst of a crowd of have led to the arrest of someone. The law persons. Ape-like, he grinned at the furniture, never went away empty-handed. He racked walked about the room, spoke aloud, pretending his aching brain to bring back the incident, but that he was meeting real people; tried to frame it would not be recalled for the excellent reason sentences expressive of profound grief. He that he really knew nothing about the matter. opened the door, and made a pretence of greet- It was a relief, at all events to find that he had ing an imaginary individual. It was as though actually been examined with the rest and a stream of cold water had fallen upon his neck. had not been suspected. Nevertheless, he had His knees knocked together, and he felt sick undoubtedly done the deed, of which the mere with fear. There was evidently no use in thought made him tremble in every joint. Or attempting to go down without some stimulant, was it all a part of his drunken dreams? No, Almost sorrowfully he shut the door again, and that, at least, could not be explained away. took the bottlo from its place. He took several For a long time he moved uneasily from his small doses, patiently testing the effect until barricado at the door to the window, from which his hand was steady and warm. ho tried to see the street below. But his room Ten minutes later ho was kneeling with many was in the attic, and the broad stone cornice of others before the catafalque, beneath the great the palace cut off the view effectually. At last canopy of black. He was dazed by the light of he began to pull the furniture away from the the great branches of candles, and confused by entrance, slowly at first, as he merely thought the subdued sound of whispering and of softly of its uselessness, then with ſeverish haste as hy treading feet; but he knew that his outward realised that the fact of his trying to entrench demeanour was calm and collected, and that he himself in his quarters would seem suspicious. exhibited no signs of nervousness. San Giacinto In a few seconds he had restored everything to was standing near one of the doors, having its place. The brandy bottles disappeared into taken his turn with the sons of the dead man the cupboard in the wall; a bit of candle filled to remain in the room. He watched the the empty candlestick. He tore off his clothes librarian, and a rough sort of pity made itself and jumped into bod, tossing himself about to felt in his heart. give it the appearance of having been slept in. " Poor Meschini!” he thought. ** He has Ihen he got up again and proceeded to make lost a friend. I daresay he is more genuinely his toilet. All his clothos were black, and he sorry than all tho family put together, poor had but a slender choice. He understood fellow!" vaguely, however, that there would be a funera? Arnoldo Meschini, kneeling before the body or some sort of ceremony in which all the of the inan he had murdered, with a brandy members of the household would be expected to bottle in the pocket of his long coat, would 150 SANT ILARIO CH. have come to an evil end if the giant had he repeated. “We will try and fulfil his wishes guessed the truth. But he looked what he was with regard to you." supposed to be, the humble, ill-paid, half-starved Grazie, Eccelenza ! " saig Meschini with librarian, mourning the master he had faithfully great humility, making horns with his fingers served for thirty years: He knelt a long timo, behind his back to ward off the evil eye, and bis lips moving mechanically with the words of edging away in tho direction of the grand stairan oft-repeated prayer. In reality ho was afraid case. to rise from his kneos alone, and was waiting San Giacinto roturned to the door and paid no until some of the others macle tho first move. niore attention to him. Then Meschini almost But the rows of lacqueys, doubtless believing ran down the stairs and did not slacken his speed that tho amount of their future wages woulit until he found himself in the street. The cold air largely depend upon the vigour of their present of the winter's day revived him, and he found mourning, did not seem inclinerl to desist from himself walking rapidly in the direction of the their orisons. To Meschini tho time was in- Ponto Quattro Capi. "He generally took that terminable, and his courage was beginning to direction when he went out without any especial ooze away from him as the sense of his position object, for his friend Tiberio Colaisso, the poor acquired a tormenting force. Ho could have apothecary, had his shop upon the little island borne it well enough in a church, in the of Saint Bartholomew, which is connected with midst of a vast congregation; he could have the shores of the river by a double bridge, whence fought off his horror even here for a few the name, “the bridge of four heads." minutes, but to sustain such a part for a quarter Meschini pauscd and looked over the parapet of an hour seemed almost impossible. Ho at the yellow swirling water. The eddies seemed would have given his soul, which indeed was to tako queer shapes and he watched them for just then of but small valve, to take a sip of a long time. He hul a splitting headache, of courage from the bottle, and his clasped fingers the kind which is made more painful by looking twitched nervously, longing to find the way to at quickly moving objects, which, at the samu his pocket. He glanced along the line, measuring time, exercise an irresistible fascination over the his position, to see whether there was a possi- eye. Almost unconsciously ho compared his bility of drinking without being observed, but own life to the river-turbid, winding, destroyhe saw that it would be madness to think of it, ing. The simile was incoherent, like most of his and bėgan repeating his prayer with redoubled fancies on that day, but it served to express onergy, in the hope of distracting his mind. a thought, and he began to feel an odd sympathy Then a horrible delusion began to tako possession for the muddy stream, such as perhaps no one of him ; he fancied that the dead man was had ever felt before him. But as he looked ho beginning to turn his head slowly, almost grew dizzy, and drew hack from tho parapet. imperceptibly, towards him. Those closed oyes There must have been something strange in his would open and look him in the face, a super- face, for a man who was passing looked at him natural voice would speak his name. As on the curiously and asked whether ho were ill. He previous afternoon the cold perspiration began shook his head with a sickly smile and passed to trickle from his brow. He was on the point on. of crying alond with terror, when the man next The apothecary was standing iilly at his door, to him rose. In an instant he was on his feet. waiting for a custom that rarely came his way. Both bent again, crossed themselves, and retired. He was a cadaverous man, about fifty years of Meschini stumbled and caught at his companion's age, with eyes of an uncertain colour set deep in arm, but succeeded in gaining the door. As he his head. An ill-kept, grizzled beard descended passed out, his face was so discomposed that upon his chest, and gave a certain wildness to his San Giacinto looked down upon him with in- appearance. A very shabby green smoking cap, creased compassion, then followed him a few trimmed with tarnished silver lace, was set far steps and laid his hand on his shoulder. The back upon his head, displaying a wrinkled orelibrarian started violently and stood still. head, much heightened by baldness, but of “ He was a good friend to you, Signor Mes proportions that denoted a large and active chini," said the big man kindly. " But take brain. That he took snuff in great quantities heart, you shall not be forgotten." was apparent. Otherwise ho was neither very The dreaded moment had come, and it had dirty nor very clean, but his thumbs had that been very terrible, but San Giacinto's tone was peculiar shape which seems to be the result of reassuring. He could not have suspected any constantly rolling 'pills. Meschini stopped bething, though the servants said that he was an fore him. inscrutable man, profound in his thoughts and “Sor Arnoldo, good-day,' said the chemist, fearful in his anger. He was the one of all the scrutinising his friend's faco curiously. family whom Meschini most feared. “Ciood-day, Sor Tiberio,"replicd the librarian. “ God have mercy on him !” whined the “Will you let mo como in for a littlo moment po! librarian, trembling to his feet. “He was the Thero seemed to be an attempt at a jost in tho best of men, and is no doubt in glory!" question, for the apothecary almost smiled. "No doubt,” replied San Giacinto drily, Ho Padrone, he said, retiring backwarcis entertained opinions of his own upon the subject, through the narrow door. "A game of scopa and he did not like the man's tono. “No doubt," to-day?"

XXVI SANT ILARIO 151 * Have you the time to spare ?" inquirod the l together. Only the poorest class of people, other, in a serious tone. They always main- emboldened by the mean aspect of his shop, tained the myth that Tiberio Colaisso was a very came in to got a plaster, an ointment or a black busy man. draught, at the lowest possible prices. And To-day,” answered the latter, without yet, in certain branches, Tiberio Colaisso was a smile, and emphasising the word as though a learnerl man. At all events, he had prover! it defined an exception, to-day, I have nothing himself able to do all that Meschini asked of to do. Besides, it is early.” him. He was keen, too, in an indolent way, “We can play a hand, and then wo can dine and a single glance had satisfied him that soinoat Cicco's." thing very unusual had happened to the librarian. “Being Friday in Advent, I had intended to He watched him patiently, hoping to find out fast,” replied! the apothecary, who had not the truth without questions. At the same time, a penny in his pocket. “ But since you are so the hope of winning a few coppers mado him good as to invite me, I do not say no. keop an eye on the game. To his surprise he Meschini said nothing, for ho understood the won easily, and he was further astonished when Hituation, which was by no means a novel one. ho saw that the miserly Meschini was not His friend produced a pack of Italian carls, inclined to complain of his losses, nor to accuse almost black with ago. He gavo Meschini the him of cheating. only chair, and scated himself upon a three " You are not lucky to day," he remarked at legged stool. last, when his winnings amounted to a couple of It was a dismal sceno. The shop was like pauls--a modern franc in all. many of its kind in the poorer quarters of old Meschini looked at him uneasily and wipedi Rome. There was room for the counter and for his brow, leaning back in the rickety chair. three people to stand before it when the door IIis hands were trembling. was shut." The floor was covered with a broken “No," he answered. "I am not quite myself pavement of dingy bricks. As the two men to-day. Tho fact is that a most dreadful hegan to play, a fine, drizzling rain wet the tragedy occurred in our house last night, the silent strect outside, and the bricks within at mere thought of which gives me the fever. ce exhibited an unctuous moisture. The sky I am even obliged to take it little stimulant had beconie cloudy after the fine morning, and from time to time." there was little light in the shop. Three of the So saying, he drow the bottle from his pocket walls were hidden by cases with glass doors, and applied it to his lips. He had hoped that containing an assortment of majolica jars which it would not be necessary, but he was unable to would delight a modern amateur, but which do without it very long, his nerves being broken looked dingy and mean in the poor shop. Here down by the quantity he had taken on the and there, between them, stood bottles large previous night. Colaisso looked on in silence, and small, some broken and dusty, others filled more puzzled than ever. The librarian seemed with liquids and bearing paper labels, brown to be revived by the close, and spoke more with age, the ink inscriptions falling into the cheerfully after it. dirty surface that surrounded them, The only "A most terrible tragedy," he said. “The things in the place which looked tolerably clean prince was murdered yosterday afternoon. were the littlo brass scales and the white marble I could not speak of it to you at once. tablet for compounding solid medicines. "Murdered ?" exclaimed the apothecary in The two mon looked as though they belonged amazement. "And by whom?” to the little room. Meschini's yellow com "That is the mystery. He was found dead plexion was as niuch in keeping with the in his study. I will tell you all I know. surroundings as the chemist's grcy, colourless Meschini conimunicated the story to his face. His bloodshot eyes wandered from the friend in a disjointed fashion, interspersing half-defaced carils to the objects in the shop, his narrativo with many coniments intended to and he was uncertain in his play. His con- give himself courage to proceed. Ho told the panion looked at him as though ho were trying tale with evident reluctance, but he could not to solve somo intricate problem that gave him avoid the necessity. If Tiberio Colaisso read trouble. He himself was a man who, like the the account in the paper that evening, as he librarian, had begun life under favourable undoubtedly would, ho would wonder why his circumstancos, had studied medicino and had companion had not been the first to relate the practised it. But he had been unfortunate, and, 'catastropho; and his wonder might turn into though talentod, did not possess the qualifica- a suspicion. It would have been better not to tions most necessary for his profession. He had cone to the apothecary's, but since he found busied himself with chomistry, and had invented himself there he could not escape from informing a universal panacea which had failed, and in him of what had happened. which he had sunk most of his sinall cipital. " It is very strange," said the chemist, when Disgusted with his reverses, he had gravitatod ho had heard all. Meschini thonght he detected slowly to his present position. Finding him a disagreeable look in his eyes, careless and indifferent to their wants, his “It is, indeed," he answered. “ I am made customers had dropped away, one by one, until ill by it. See how my hand trembles. I am he earned barely enough to keep body and soul cold and hot." » 152 SANT' ILARIO You have been drinking too much,” said beyond all description. It was as though ho Colaisso suddenly, and with a certain brutality had suddenly become emperor of the whole that startled his friend. You are not sober. universe. He floated through wondrous regions You must have taken a great deal last night. of soft colour, and strains of divine musio A libation to the dead, I suppose, in the manner sounded in his ears. Gentle hands carried him of the ancients. with an easy swaying motion to transcendent Meschini winced visibly and began to shuffle heights, where every breath he drew was like the cards, while he attempted to smile to hide a draught of sparkling life. His whole being his embarrassment. was filled with something which he knew was "I was not well yesterday-at least I do happiness, until he felt as though he could not not know what was the matter--a headache, contain the overflowing joy. At one moment I think, nothing more. And then, this awful he glided boyond the clouds through a gorgeous catastrophe-horrible! My nerves are unstrung. sunset; at another he was lying on a soft I can scarcely speak.' invisible couch, looking out to the bright "You need sleep first, and then a tonic,” distance-listance that never ended, never said the apothecary a business-like tone. could end, but the contemplation of which was "I slept until late this morning, It did me rupture, the greater for being inexplicable. An no good. I am half dead myself. Yes, if exquisite new sense was in him, corresponding I could sleep again it might do me good.” to no bodily instinct, but rejoicing wildly, in “Go home and go to bed. If I were in your something that could not be defined, nor under. place I would not drink any more of that liquor. stool, nor measured, but only felt.. It will only make you worse. At last he began to descend, slowly at first “Give me something to make me sleep. and then with increasing spcod, till he grew I will take it." giddy and unconscious in tho fall. He awoke The apothecary looked long at him and and uttered a cry of terror. It was night, and seomed to be weighing, something in his he was alone in the dark. He was chilled to * judgment. An evil thought crossed his mind. the bone, too, and his head was heavy, but the He was very poor. He know well enough, in darkness was unbearable, and though he would spite of Meschini's protestations, that he was gladly have slept again he dared not renain an not so poor as he pretended to be. If ho were, instant without a light. He groped about for he could not have paid so regularly for the his matches, found them, and lit a candle. chemicals and for tho experiments necessary to A neighbouring clock tollod out the hour of the preparation of his inks, More than once midnight, and the sound of the bells terrified the operations had proved to be expensive, but him beyond measure. Cold, miserable, in an the librarian had never complained, though he agony of fear, bis nervousness doubled by the haggled for a baiocco over his dinner at Cicco's opium and by a need of food of which he was wine shop, and was generally angry when he not aware, there was but one remedy within lost a paul at cards. He had money somewhere. his reach. The sleeping potion had bcon calcu- It was evident that he was in a highly nervous lated for one occasion only, and it was all gone." state. If he could be induced to take opium Ho tried to drain a few drops from the phial, once or twice it might become a habit. To sell and a drowsy, half-sickening odour rose from it opium was very profitable, and Colaisso knew to his nostrils. But there was nothing left, well enough the power of the vice and the nothing but the brandy, and little more than proportions it would soon assume, especially if half a bottle of that. It was enough for his Meschini thought the medicine contained only present need, however, and more than enough. some harmless drug. He drank greedily, for he was parched with Very well," said the apothecary. "I will thirst, though hardly conscious of the fact. make you a draught. But you must be sure Then he slept till morning. But when he opened that you are ready to sleep when you take it. his eyes he was conscious that he was in a worso It acts very quickly." state than on the previous day. Ho was pot The draught which Meschini carried home with only nervous but exhausted, and it was with him was nothing but weak laudanum and water. feeble steps that he made his way to his friend's It looked innocent enough in the little glass bottle shop, in order to procure a double dose of the labelled " Sleeping potion." But the effect of sleeping mixture. If he could sleep through it, as Colaisso had told him, was very rapid. the twenty-four hours, ho thought, so as not to Exhausted by all he had suffered, the librarian wake up in the dead of night, he should closed the windows of his room nd lay down be better. Whon hem his appearance to rost. In a quarter of an hour he was in Tiberio Colaisso knew wiat ke wanted, and & heavy sleep. In his dreams he was happier although, he had half repented of what he had than he had ever been before. The whole world done, the renewed possibility of selling the seemed to be his, to use as he pleased. He was precious drug was a temptation he could not transformed into a magnificent being such as he withstand. had never imagined in his waking hours. He One day succeeded another, and each morning passed from one scene of splendour to another, saw Arnoldo Meschini crossing the Ponte Quattro from glory to glory, surrounded by forms of Capi on his way to the apothecary's. . In the beauty, by showers of golden light in a beatitude ordinary course of human nature a man does not XXVII SANT' ILARIO 155 bócome an opium-eator in a day, nor even, per. “I am directed to say that any request or haps, in a week, but to the librarian the narcotic complaint you have to make will be transmitted became a necesity almost from the first. Its to his Eminence by a special messenger, dction, combined with incessant doses of alcohol, answered the man, Anything," he added in was destructive, but the man's constitution was explanation, “beyond what concerns your perstronger than would bave been believed. He sonal comfort. In this respect I am at liberty possessed, moreover, a great power of controlling to give you whatever you desire, within reason. his features when he was not assailed by super *Thank you. I will endeavour to be reason. natural fears, and so it came about that, living able," replied Giovanni. "I am much obliged almost in solitude, no one in the Palazzo Monte to you. varchi was aware of his state. It was bad The man left the room and closed the door enough, indeed, for when he was not under the softly, so softly that the prisoner wondered influence of brandy he was sleeping from the whether he had turned the key. On examining effects of opium. In three days he was willing the panels he saw, however, that they were to pay anything the apothecary asked, and smooth and not broken by any latch or köyhole. seemed scarcely conscious of the payments he The spring was on the outside, and there was made. He kept up a show of playing the no means whatever of opening the door from accustomed game of cards, but he was absent. within. minded, and was not even angry at his daily Giovanni wondered why a special messenger losses. The apothecary had more money in his was to be employed to carry any request he pocket than he had possessed for many a day. made directly to the cardinal. The direction As Arnoldo Meschini sank deeper and deeper, could not have been given idly, nor was it with:I the chemist's spirits rose, and he began to out some especial reason that he was at once assume an air of unwonted prosperity. One of told of it. Assuredly his Eminence was not the earliest results of the librarian's degraded expecting the prince to repent of his bargain condition was that Tiberio Colaisso procured and to send word that he wished to be released. himself a now green smoking cap ornamented The idea was absurd. The great man might profusoly with fresh silver lace. suppose, however, that Giovanni would desire to send some communication to his wife, who would naturally be anxious about his absenço. Against this contingency, however, Sant'Ilario had provided by means of the note he had CHAPTER XXVII despatched to her. Several days would elapse beforo she began to expect him, so that he had SANT ILARIO had guessed rightly that the place plonty of time to reflect upon his future course. of safety and secrecy to which he was to be Meanwhile he resolved to ask for nothing. convoyed was no other than the Holy Office, Indeod, he had no requirements. He had or prison of the Inquisition. He was familiar money in his pockets and could send the with the interior of the building, and knew that attendant to buy any linen he needed without it contained none of the horrors generally attri. getting it from his homo. buted to it, so that, on the whole, he was well He was in a state of mind in which nothing satisfied with the cardinal's choice. The cell to could have pleased him better than solitary which he was conveyed after dark was a large imprisonment. He felt at once a sense of rest roon on the second storey, comfortably fur- and a freedom from all responsibility that nished and bearing no sign of its use but the soothed his nerves and calmed his thoughts. ornamented iron grating that filled the window. For many days he had lived in a condition The 'walls were not thicker than those of most bordering on madness. Every interview with Roman palaces, and the chamber was dry and Corona was a disappointment, and brought airy, and suffſciently warmed by a huge brazier with it a new suffering: Much as he would of coals. It was clear from the way in which have dreaded the idea of being separated from he was treated that the cardinal relied upon her for any length of time, tho tomporary his honour more than upon any use of force in impossibility of seeing her was now a relief, of order to keep him in custody. A silent individual which he realised the importance more and in a black coat had brought him in a carriage to more as the hours succeeded each other. There the great entrance, whence a man of similar are times when nothing but a forcible break in discretion and of like appearance had conducted tho current of our lives can restore the mind to him to his cell. This person returned soon its normal balance. Such a break, painful as it afterwards, bringing a sufficient meal of fish may be at first, brings with it the long lost power and vegetables- it was Friday--decently cooked of rest. Instead of feeling the despair we and almost luxuriously served. An hour later expect, we are amazed at our own indifference, the man came back to carry away what was which again is succeeded by a renewed capacity left He asked whether the prisoner nocded for judging facts as thợy are, and by a new anything else for the night. energy to mould our lives upon a better plan. "I would like to know," said Giovanni, Giovanni neither reflected upon his position "whether any of my friends will be allowed to nor brooded over the probable result of his 800 me, if I ask it." actions. On the contrary, he went to bed and . he was. 154 SANT' ILARIO CH. slept soundly, like a strong nan tired out with went no farther than to hope that he might be bodily exertion. · He slept so long that his safe ; but his vanity or his intuition, it matters. attendant at last woke him, entering and opening little which of the two, told him that Corona the window. The morning was fine, and the felt more than that. And yet she did not love sun streamed in through the iron grating. him. Ho sat for many hours, motionless in his Giovanni looked about him, and realised where chair, trying to construct the future out of the He felt calm and strong, and was past, an effort of imagination in which he failed inclined to laugh at the idea that his rashness signally. The peace of his solitude was less would havo any dangerous consequences. satisfactory to him than at first, and he began Corona doubtless was already awake too, and to suspect that before very long he might even supposed that he was in the country shooting, wish to return to tho world. Possibly Corona wild boar, or otherwise amusing himself. I might come to see him. The cardinal would Instead of that he was in prison. There was ! perhaps think it best to tell her what had no denying the fact, after all, but it was strange happened. How would he toll it? Would he that he should not care to be at liberty. He let her know all ? The light faded from the had heard of the moral sufferings of men who room, and the attendant brought his evening are kept in confinement. No matter how well moal and set two candles upon the table. they are treated they grow nervous and care Hitherto, it could not be said that he had worn and haggard, wearing themselves out in suffered. On the contrary, his character had a perpetual longing for freedom. Giovanni, on regained its tone after weeks of depression. the contrary, as he looked round the bright, Another day was ended, and he went to rest, airy room, felt that he might inhabit it for but he slept less soundly than before, and on a year without once caring to go out into the the following morning he awoke early. The world. A few books to read, thọ means of monotony of the existence struck him all at writing if he pleased-he needed nothing else. once in its reality. The fourth day would be To be alone was happiness enough, like the third, and, for all he knew, hundreds He ate his breakfast slowly, and sat down in to come would be like the fourth, if it pleased an old-fashioned chair to smoke a cigarette and his Eninence to keep him a prisoner. Corona bask in the sunshine while it lasted. It was would certainly never suspect that he was shut not much like prison, and he did not feel like up in the Holy Office, and if she did, she might a man arrested for murder. He was conscious not be able to come to him. Even if she came, for a long time of nothing but a vague, peaceful what could he say to her? That he had com. contentment. He had given a list of things to mitted a piece of outrageous folly because he be bought, including a couple of novels, to the was annoyed at her disbelief in him or at her man who waited upon him, and after a few coldness. He had probably made himself hours everything was brought. The day passed ridiculous for the first time in his life. The tranquilly, and when he went to bed he smiled thought was the reverso of consoling. Nor did as he blew out the candle, partly at himself it contribute to his peace of mind to know that and partly at his situation. if he had made himself a laughing-stock, tho My friends will not say that I am absolutely carlinal, who dreaded ridicule, would certainly lacking in originality," he reflected as he went refuse to play a part in his comedy, and would to sleep. act with all the rigour suitable to so grave On the morrow he read less and thought a situation. He might even bring his prisoner In the first place he wondered how long to trial. Giovanni would submit to that, rather he should be left without any communication than be laughed at, but the alternative now from the outside world. He wondered whether seemed an appalling ono. In his disgust of life any stops had been taken towards bringing hin on that memorable morning he had cared nothing to a trial, or whether the cardinal really knew what became of him, and had been in a state that he was innocent, and was merely making which precluded all just appreciation of the him act out the comedy he had himself invented future. His enforced solitude had restored his and begun. He was not impatient, but he was faculties. Ho desired nothing less than to be curious to know the truth. It was now the tried for murder, because he had taken a short cut third day since he had seen Corona, and he had to satisfy his wife's caprico. But that caprice not preparod her for a long absence. If he had for its object the liberty of poor Faustina heard nothing during the next twenty-four Montevarchi. At all events, if he had made hours it would be better to take some measures himself ridiculous, tho ultimate purpose of his for relieving her anxiety, if she felt any. Tho folly had been good, and had been accomplished. latter reflection, which presented itself suddenly, All through the afternoon he paced his room, startled him a little. Was it possible that she alternately in a state of profound dissatisfaction would allow a week to slip by without expecting with himself, and in a condition of anxious to hear from him or asking herself where he curiosity about coming events. He scarcely was? That was out of the question. He touched his food or noticed the attendant ndio admitted the impossibility of such indifference, entered half a dozen times to perform his various almost in spite of himself. He was willing, offices. Again the night closed in, and once perhaps, to think her utterly heartless rather more he luy down to sleep, dreading the morning, than accept the belief in an affection which and hoping to lose himself in dreams. The more.

XXVII SANT' ILARIO 155 fourth day was like the third, indeed, as far as “Giovanni-was it kind to leave me so." she his surroundings were concerned, but he had asked, without moving from her place. not foreseen that he would be a prey to such The question corresponded so closely with his griawing anxiety as he suffered, still less, perhaps, own feelings that he had auticipated it, though that he should grow almost desperate for a he had no answer ready. She knew all, and sight of Corona. He was not a man who made was hurt by what he had done. What could any exhibition of his feelings even when he was ho say? The reasons that had sent him so alone. But the man who served him noticed bollly into danger no longer seemed even that when he entered Giovanni was never reall. sutlicient for an excuse. The happiness he had ing, as he had always been doing at first. He anticipated in seeing her had vanished almost was either walking rapidly up and down or before it had made itself felt. His firs; emotion sitting idly in the big chair by the window. was bitter anger against the cardinal. No one His face was quiet and pale, even solemn at else could havo told her, for no ono else knew times. The attendant was doubtless accustomed what he had done nor where he was. Giovanni to sudden changes of mood in his prisoners, for thought, and with reason, that tho great man he appeared to take no notice of the alteration might have spared his wife such a blow. in Giovanni's manner. "I belioved I was doing what was best when It seemed as though the day would never end. I did it,” he answered, scarcely knowing what. To a inan of his active strength, to walk about to say. a room is not exerciso; it hardly seems like “ Was it best to leave me without a word, motion at all, and yet Giovanni found it harder except a messago of excuse for others ?” and harder to sit still as tho hours wore on. For youlwas it not better! For me---What After an interval of comparative peace, his love does it matter? Should I be happier anywhere for Corona had overwhelmed him again, and else?" with tenfold force. To be shut up in a cell “ Have I driven you from your home, Giowithout tho possibility of seeing her, was torture vanni?" asked Corona, with a strange look in such as he had never dreamt of in his wholo life. her dark eyes. Her voice trembled. By a strange revulsion of feeling it appeared to “No, not you,” he answered, turning away him that by taking her so suddenly at her word and beginning to walk up and down by the he had again done her an injustice. The process force of the habit ho had acquired during the of reasoning by which he arrived at this conclu- last two or three days. “Not you," he repeated sion was not clear to himself, and probably more than once in a bitter tone. could not be made intelligible to anyone elso. Corona sank down upon the chair he had left, He had assuredly sacrificed himself unhesitate and buried her face in her hands, as though ingly, and at first the action had given him overcome by a great and sudden grief. Giovanni pleasure. But this was destroyed by tho thought stopped before her and looked at her, not clearly of the possible consequences. He asked whether understanding what was passing in her mind. he had the right to satisfy her imperative “Why are you so sorry?” he asked. “ Has demand for Faustina's freedom by doing that a separation of a few days changed you? Are which might possibly cause her annoyance, you sorry for me?" even though it should bring no serious injury to Why did you como hero?" she exclaimed, anyone. The time passed very slowly, and instead of answering his question. “Why here, towards evening he began to feel as he had felt of all places ?” before he had taken tho fatal step which had “I had no choice. The cardinal decided the placed him beyond Corona's reach, restless, matter for me." iniserable, desperate. At last it was night, and "Tho cardinal? Why do you confide in he was sitting beforo his solitary meal, cating him? You never did before. I may be wrong, hardly anything, staring half unconsciously at but I do not trust him, kind as he has always the closed window opposite. been. If you wanted advice, you might have The door 'opened softly, but he did not look gone to Padre Filippo--- round, supposing the person entering to be the “Advice? I do not understand you, Corona.” attendant. Sudilenly there was the rustlo of Did you go to the cardinal and tell him a woman's dress in the room, and at the same that you were very unhappy and wanted to moment the door was shut. He sprang eto his make a rotreat in some quiet place where feet, stood still a moment, and then uttered nobody could find you? And did he not advise a cry of surprise. Corona stood beside him, you to come here, promising to keep your very pale, looking into his eyes. She had worn secret, and authorising you to stay as long as a thick veil, and on coming in had thrown it you pleased? That is what he told me. back upon her head-tho veils of thwse days “He told you that?" cried Giovanni in great were long and heavy, and fell about the head astonishment. and neck like a drapery. "Yes--that and nothing more. Ho came to “Corona !" Giovanni cried, stretching out his sce mo late this afternoon. He said that he hands towards her. Something in her face pre- feared lost I should be anxious about your long vented him from throwing his arms round her, 'absence, and that h8 thought himself justified something not like her usual coldness and in telling mo where you were and in giving me reproachful look that kept him back. a pass, in caso I wanted to see you. Besides, if -3 97 not 1156 SANT'. ILARIO it is not all as he says, how did you come slowly closed, as though by their own weight; here?" his head fell back, and his lips turned white, " You do not know the truth? You do not She felt the burden of his body in her arms, and know what I did? You do not guess why I am but for her strength he would have fallen to the in the Holy Office ?" floor. She reeled on her feet, holding him still, "I know only what he told me," answered and sank down until she knelt and his head Corona, surprised by Giovanni's questions. rested on her knee. Her heart stood still as But Giovanni gave no immediate explanation. she listened for the sound of his faint breathing He paced the floor in a state of excitement in Had his unconsciousness lasted longer she would which she had never seen him, clasping and have fainted herself. But in a moment his eyes unclasping his fingers nervously, and uttering opened again with an expression such as she had short, incoherent exclamations. As she watched seen in them once or twice before, but in a less him a sensation of fear crept over her, but she degree. did not ask him any question. He stopped Corona--it is too much !” he said softly, suddenly again. almost dreamily. Then his strength returned in "You do not know that I am in prison ?" an instant, like a strong steel bow that has been “In prison?” She rose with a sharp cry and bent almost to breaking. He scarcely knew how seized his hands in hers. it was that the position was changed so that "Do not be frightened, dear," he said in an he was standing on his feet and clasping her as altered tone. “I am perfectly innocent. After she had clasped him. Her tears were flowing all, you know it is a prison. fast, but there was more joy in them than pain. “Ah, Giovanni ! she exclaimed reproach “How could you do it?" she askou at length, fully, "how could you say such a dreadful looking up. “And oh, Giovanni ! what will be thing, even in jest ?". She had dropped his the end of it? Will not something dreadful hands again, and drew back a step as she spoke. happen?" " It is not a jest. It is earnest. Do not "What does anything matter now, darling?" start. I will tell you just what happened. It At last they sat down together, hand in hand, is best, after all. When I left you at the as of old. It was as though the last two months Termini, I saw that you had set your heart on had been suddenly blotted out. As Giovanni liberating poor Faustina. I could not find any said, nothing could matter now. And yot the way of accomplishing what you desired, and situation was far from clear. Giovanni under- I saw that you thought I was not doing my best stood well enough that the cardinal had wished for her freedom. I went directly to the cardinal to leave him the option of telling his wifo what and gave myself up in her place." had occurred, and, if he chose to do so, of "As a hostage-a surety ?” asked Corona, telling her in his own language. He was grateful breathlessly. for the tact the statesman had displayed, a tact “No. He would not have accepted that, for which seemed also to show Giovanni the cardinal's he was prejudiced against her. 1 gave myself views of the case. He had declared that he was op as the murderer. desperate. The cardinal had concluded that ho He spoke quite calmly, as though he had been was unhappy. He had said that he did not care narrating a commonplace occurrence. For an what became of him. The cardinal had, supinstant she stood before him, dumb and horror- posed that he would be glad to be alone, or struck, Then, with a great, heart-broken cry, at all events that it would be good for him she threw her arms round him and clasped him to have a certain amount of solitude. If his passionately to her broast. position were in any way dangerous, the great My beloved! My beloved ! man would surely not have thought of sending For some moments she held him so closely Corona to his prisoner as he had done. He that he could neither move nor see her face, but would have prepared her himself against any the beating of his heart told him that a great shock. And yet he was undeniably in prison, change had in that instant come over his life. with no immediate prospect of liberty. The cry had come from her soul, irresistibly, “ You cannot stay here any longer," said spontaneously. There was an accent in the two Corona, when they were at last able to talk of words she repeated which he had never hoped to the immediate future. hear again. He had expected that she would “I do not see how I am to get out," Giovanni reproach him for his madness. Instead of that, answered, with a smile. his folly had awakened the love that was not "I will go to the cardinaldead, though it had been so desperately “It is of no use. He probaḥly guesses the wounded. truth, but he is not willing to be made* Presently she drew back a little and looked ridiculous by me or by anyone. He will keep into his eyes, a fierce, deep light burning in her me here until there can be a trial, or until he finds thio real culprit. He is obstinate. I know 'I love you," she said, almost under her 'bim." breath. It is impossible that he should think of A wonderful smile passed over his face, such a thing !", exclaimed Corona indignantly, illuminating the dark, stern lines of it like a rag “I am afraid it is very possible. But of of heavenly light. Then the dusky eyelids course, it is only a matter of time-- fów days > Own.

XXVII SANT ILARIO 157 really say 53 > at the utmost. If worst comes to worst I can Giovanni with a large sealed letter, bearing the demand an inquiry, I suppose, though I do not Apostolic arms, and addressed merely to the see how I can proclaim my own innocence number of Giovanni's cell. without hurting Faustina. She was liberated “There is an answer," said the man, and then bocause I pud myself in her place-it is rather left the room. complicated." “It is probably the notice of the trial, or Tell me, Giovanni," said Corona, "what something of the kind," observed Giovanni, did you say to the cardinal? You did not suddenly growing very grave as he broke the that you murdered Montevarchi?” seal. He wished it might have como at any "No. I said I gave myself up as the other time than the present. Corona held her murderer, and I explained how I might have breath and watchod his face while he read the done the deed. I did more, I pledged my lines written upon one of the two papers he took honour that Faustina was innocent. from the envelope. Suddenly the colour came “But you were not sure of it yourself to his cheeks and his eyes brightened with a look Since you had told me it was true, I believed of happiness and surprise. it," lie answered simply. "I am free!” he cried, as he finished. Free “ Thank you, dearif I will sign this paper ! Of course I will ! No. Do not thank me for it. I could not will sign anything ho likes." help myself. I know that you were sure--are The envelope contained a note from the you sure of something else, Corona ? Are you cardinal, in his own hand, to the effect that as certain as you were of that?" suspicion had fallen upon another person and “How.cån you ask? But you are right-you that Giovanni was at liberty to return to his have the right to donbt me. You will not, home if he would sign the accompanying docuthough, will you ? Hear me, dear, while I tell ment. The latter was very short, and set forth you the whole story. that Giovanni Saracinesca bound himself upon She slipped from her chair and knelt before his word to appear in the trial of the murderer him, as though she were to make a confession of Prince Montevarchi, if called upon to do so, Then she took his hands and looked up lovingly and not to leave Rome until the matter was into his face. The truth rose in her eyes. finally concluded and set at rest. "Forgive me, Giovanni. Yes, you have much He took the pen that lay on the table and to forgive. I did not know myself. When you signed his name in a broad firm hand, a fact the doubted me, I felt as though I had nothing left more notable because Corona was leaning over in life, as though you would never again believe his shoulder, watching the characters as he in me. I thought I did not love you. I was traced them. He folded the paper and placed wrong. It was only my miserable vanity that it in the open envelope which accompanied it. was wounded, and that hurt me so. I felt that the cardinal was a man of details. He thought my love was dead, that you yourself were dead it possible that the document might be returned and that another man had taken your place. open for lack of the means to seal it. He did Ah, I could have helped it! Had I known you not choose that his secrets should become the better, dear, had I been less mistaken in myself, property of the people about the Holy Office. all would have been different. But I was It was a specimen of his forethought in small foolish-no, I was unhappy. Everything was things which might have an influence upon dark and dreadful. Oh, my darling, I thought great ones. I could tell what I felt-I cannot! Forgive me, When Giovanni had finished, he rose and only forgive me, and love me as you did long stood beside Corona. Each looked into the ago. I will nover leave you, not if you stay other's cyes and for a moment neither saw very here for ever, only let me love you as I will !" clearly. They said little more, however, until 'It is not for me to forgive, sweetheart," tho attendant entered again. said Giovanni, bending down and kissing her "You are at liberty," he said briefly, and sweet dark hair. “It is for you without a word began to put together the “But I would so much rather think it my fow small things that belonged to his late fault, dear," she answered, drawing his face prisoner. down to hers. It was a very womanly impulse Half an hour later Giovanni was seated at that made her take the blame upon herself. dinner at his father's table. The old gentleman “You must not think anything so unreason. greeted him with a half-savage growl of satisable, Corona. I brought all the harm that faction. came, from the first moment." “The prodigal has returned to get a meal He would have gone on to accuse himself, while there is one to be had," he remarked. obstinate and manlike, recapitulating the whole " * I thought you had gone to Paris to leave the series of events. But she would not let him. agreeable settlement of our affairs to Corona Ohoe more she sat beside him and held lris hand and me. Where the devil have you been?" in hers. They talked incoherently and it is not “I have been indulging in the luxury of to be wondered at if they arrived at no very, a retreat in a religious house," answereddefinite conclusion after a very long con Giovanni with perfect truth. versation. They were still sitting together Corona glanced at bim and both laughed when the attendant entered and presented happily, as they had not laughed for many days << . 158 SANT' ILARIO CH. and weeks. Saracinesca looked incredulously suggest itself to him at such times. It is true across the table at his son. that when he went to bed at night he was “You chose a singular moment for your do- generally either so stupefied-by opium or so votional exorcises," he said. “Where will piety intoxicated with strong. drink that he forgot hide herself noxt, I wonder ? As long as Corona even to lock his door. But during the day he is satisfied, I am. It is her business." was seldom so far under the power of cither as 'I am perfectly satisfied, I assure you," said not to suffer from his own hidcous imaginings. Corona, whose black eyes were full of light. One day, as he dragged his slow pace along Giovanni raised his glass, looked at her and a narrow street near the fountain of Trevi, his smiled lovingly. Then ho emptied it to the last eyes were arrested by an armourer's window. drop and set it down without a word. It suddenly struck him that he had no weapon "Some secret, I suppose," said the old gentle- of defonce in case San Giacinto or his agents man gruflly. came upon him unawares. And yet a bullet well placed would make an end even of such a Hercules as the man he feared. He paused and looked anxiously up and down the street. It was a dark day and a fine rain was falling. CHAPTER XXVIII There was nobody about who could recognise ARNOLDO MESCHINI was not, perhaps, insane in hin, and he might not have another such opporthe ordinary sense of the worl; that is to say, tunity of providing himself unobserved with he would probably have recovered the normal what he wanted. He entered the shop and balance of his faculties if he could have been bought himself a revolver. The man, showed kept from narcotics and stimulants, and if he him how to load it and sold him a box of could have been relieved from the distracting cartridges. Ho dropped the firearm into one of fear of discovery which tormented him when he the pockets of his coat, and smiled as he felt was not under the influence of one or the other. how comfortably it balanced the bottle ho But the latter condition was impossible, and it carried in the other. Then he slunk out of the was the extremity of his terror which almost shop and pursued his walk. forced him to keep his brain in a clouded state. The idea of making capital out of the original People have been driven marl by sudden fright, deeds concerning tho Saracinesca, which had and have gradually lost their intellect through presented itself to him soon after the murder, the constant presence of a fear from which there recurred frequently to his mind ; but he felt is no escapo. A man who is perpetually pro that he was in no condition to elaborate it, and ducing an unnatural state of his mind by promised himself to attend to the matter when swallowing doses of brandy and opium may not he was better. For he fancied that he was ill be insane in theory; in actual fact, he may be and that his state would soon begin to improve. a dangerous madman. As one day followed an- To go to San Giacinto now was out of the other Meschini found it more and more impossible question. It would have been easier for him to to exist without his two comforters. The least climb the cross on the summit of St. Peter's, approach to lucidity made him almost frantic. with his shaken nerves and trembling limbs, He fancied every man a spy, every indifferent than to face the man who inspired in him such, glance a look full of meaning. Before long the untold dread. He could, of course, take the belief took possession of him that he was to alternative which was open to him, and go to be made the victim of somo horrible private old Saracinesca. Indeed, there were moments vengeance. San Giacinto was not the man, he when he could almost have screwed his courage thought, to be contented with sending hini to to tho point of making such an attempt, but the galleys for life. Few murderers were his natural prudence made him draw bagk from executed in those days, and it would be a small an interview in which he must incur a dosperate satisfaction to the Montevarchi to know that risk unless he had a perfect command of his. Arnoldo had merely boen transferred from his faculties. To write what he had to say would study of the library catalogue to the breaking be nerely to give a weapon against himself, of stones with a chain gang at Civitavecchia. since he could not treat the matter by lotter It was more likely that they would revenge without acknowledging his share in the forgeries. themselves more effectually: His disordered The only way to accomplish his purpose would imagination saw horriblo visions. San Giacinto ho to oxtract a solemn promise of secrecy from might lay a trap for him, might simply come at Saracinesca, together with a guarantee for his dead of night and take him from his room to own safety, and to obtain theso conditions some deep vault beneath the palace. What would need all the diplomacy he possessed. could he do against such a giant ? He fancied Bad as he was, he had no experience of practical himself before a secret tribunal in the midst of black mailing, and he would be obliged to comwhich towered San Giacinto’s colossal figure. 'poso his speechos beforehand with scrupulous He could hear the deep voice he dreaded pro- caro, and with the wisest forethought. For the nouncing his doom. He was to be torn to present, such work was beyond his power, but shreds piecemeal, burnt by a slow fire, finyed' when ho was half drank he loved to look at the alive by those enormous hands. There was no ancient parchments and build gokien palaces in conceivable horror of torture that did not the future. Whon he was strong again, and XXVIII SANT ILARIO 159 calm; he would realise all his dreams, and that fingers could not forget the habit so long familigr time, he felt sure, could not bo far removed. to them. His eyes, which had formerly been Nevertheless, the days succeeded each other unusually bright, had grown dull and almost with appalling, swiftness, and nothing was done. bleared, though they glanced at times very By imperceptible degrees his horror of San quickly from one part of the room to another. Giacinto began to invade his mind even when it That was when he saw strange things moving was most deadened by drink. So long as an idea in the vast hall, between him and the bookcases. is new and has not really become a habit of the When they had disappeared his glassy look brain, brandy will drive it away, but the moment returned, so that his eyeballs seemed merely to must inevitably come when the stimulant loses reflect the light, as inanimate objects do, without its power to obscure the memory of the thing absorbing it and conveying it to the seat of droaded. · Opium will do it more effectually, vision. His face grew daily more thin and but even that does not continue to act for ever. ghastly. It was by force of custom that he The time comes when the predominant thought stayed so long in the place where lie had spent of tho waking hours reproduces itself during so much of his life. The intervals of semithe artificial sloops with fearful force, so that lucidity seemed terribly long, though they were the mind at last obtains no rest at all. That is in reality short enough, and the effort to engage the dangerous period, preceding the decay and his attention in work helped him to live through total collapse of the intellect under what is them. He had never gone down to the apartcommonly called the fixed idea. In certain ments where the family lived since he had knelt conditions of mind, and notably with criminals before the catafalque on the day after the who fear discovery, the effects of opium change murder. Indeed, there was no reason why he very quickly; the downward steps through should go there, and no one noticed his absence. which it would take months for an ordinary He was a very insignificant person in the palace. individual to pass are descended with alarning As for anyone coming to find him among the rapidity, and the end is a thousand times more books, nothing seened more improbable. The horrible. Meschini could not have taken the library was swept out in the early morning, and doses which a confirmed opium-cater swallows no one entered it again during the twenty-four with indifference, but the result produced was hours. He never went out into the corridor far greater in proportion to the amount of the now, but left his coat upon a chair noar him, narcotic he consuned. Before the week which when he remembered to bring it. As a sort of followed the deed was ended, he began to see precautionary measure against fear, he locked visions when he was apparently awake. Shape- the door which opened upon the passage when less, slimy things crawled about the floor of his he came in the morning, unlocking it again room, upon his table, oven upon the shoots of when he went away, in order that the servant his bcd. Dark shadows confronted him, and who did the sweeping night be able to get changed their outlines unexpectedly, Forms in. rose out of the earth at his feet, and towered The Princess Montevarchi was still dangerously all at once to the top of the room, taking the ill, and Faustina had not been willing to leave appearance of San Giacinto, and vanishing her. San Giacinto and Flavia were not living suddenly into the air. The things he saw came in the house, but they spent a good deal of time jike instantaneous flashes from another and thero, because San Giacinto had ideas of his own even more terrible world, disappearing at first about duty, to which his wife was obliged to so quickly as to make him believe them only submit, even if she did not like them. Faustina the effects of the light and darkness, like the was neither nervous nor afraid of solitude, and siost he had seen in his cont. In the beginning was by no means in need of her sister's comthere was scarcely anything alarming in them, pany, so that when the two were together their but as he started whenover they came, he conversation was not always of the most affecgenerally took them as a warning that he needeu tionate kind. The consequence was that the more brandy to keep him up. In the course of young girl tried to be alone as much as possible a day or two; however, these visions assumed when she was not at her mother's bedside. inoro awful proportions, and he found it in- One day, having absolutely nothing to do, she possible to escape from them except in absolute grew desperate. It was very hard not to think stupor, It would have been clear to anyone of Anastase, when she was in the solitude of her that this state of things'could not last long. own room, with no occupation to direct her There was scarcely an hour in which he knew mind. A week earlier she had been only too exactly what he was doing, and if his strange glad to have the opportunity of dreaming away behaviour escaped opservation, this was due to the short afternoon undisturbed, letting her lais solitary way of living. He did not keep girlish thoughts wander among the rose gardens away from the palace during the wholo day, of the future with the image of the man she froin a vague idea that his absence might be loved so dearly, and who was yet so far removed thought suspicious. He spent a certain number from her. Now she could not think of him of hours in the library, doing nothing, although without reflecting that her father's death had he carefully spread out a number of books before' removed one very great obstacle to her marriage. him, and dipped his pen into the ink from time Sho was by no means of a very devout or saintly to time, stupidly, mechanically, as though his character, but, on the other hand, she had 160 SANT" ILARIO CH. <6 Will you great deal of what is called heart, and to be Again she heard the shüffling footsteps, which heartless seemed to her almost worse than to this time came towards her, and a moment be bad. In excuse of such very untheological afterwards the door opened and the librarian's doctrines it must be allowed that her ideas ghastly face was close before her. She drew concerning wickedness in general were very back a little. She had forgotten that he was so limited indeed, if not altogether childish in their ugly, she thought, or perhaps she would not. extreme simplicity. It is certain, however, that have cared to see him. It would have been she would have thought it far less wrong to run foolish, moreover, to go away after coming thus away with Gouache in spite of her family than far. to entertain any thought which could place her “I want to see the library," she said, quietly, father's tragic death in the light of a personal after she had made up her mind. advantage. E she had nothing to do she could show it to me?" not help thinking of Anastase, and if she thought "Favorisca, Excellency,” replied Meschini in of him, she could not escape the conclusion that a broken voice. He had been frightened by the it would be far easier for her to marry him, now noise at the door, and the contortion of his face. that the old prince was out of the way. It was as he tried to smile was hideous to see. Ho therefore absolutely necessary to ånd some bowed low, however, and closed the door after occupation. she had entered. Scarcely knowing what he At first she wandered aimlessly about the did, he shuffled along by her side while she looked house until she was struck, almost for the first about the library, gazing at the long rows of time, by the antiquated stiffness of the arrange- books, bound all alike, that stretched from end ment, and began to ask herself whether it would to end of many of the shelves. The place was be respectful to the memory of her father, and new to her, for she had not been in it more than to her mother, to try and make a few changes. two or three times in her life, and she felt a sort Corona's home was very different. She would of unexplained awe in the presence of so many like to take that for a model. But ono or two thousands of volumes, of so much written and attempts showed her the magnitude of the task printod wisdon which she could never hope to she had undertaken. She was ashamed to call understand. She had come with a vague idea the servants to help her--it would look as though that she should find something to read that there were to be a reception in the house. Her should be different from the novels she was not ideas of what could take place in the Palazzo allowed to touch. She realised all at once that Montevarchi did not go beyond that staid form she knew nothing of what had been written in of diversion. She was ashamed, however, and all the centuries whoso literature was reprereflected, besides, that she was only the youngest sented in the vast collection. She hardly knew of the family and had no right to take the the names of twenty books out of the hundreds initiative in the matter of improvements. The of millions that the world contained. But she time bung very heavily upon her hands. She conld ask Meschini. She looked at him again, tried to teach horself something about painting and his face repelled her. Nevertheless, she by looking at the pictures on the walls, spending was too kindhearted not to enter into conversa a quarter of an hour before each with con. tion with the lonely nian whom she had so rarely scientious assiduity: But this did not succeed seen, but who was one of the oldest members of either. The men in the pictures all took tho her father's household. shape of Monsieur Gouache in his smartest “You have spent your life hore, have you uniform and the women all looked disagreeably not ?" she asked, for the sake of saying somo: like Flavia. Then she thought of the library, thing, which was the only place of importance in the Nearly thirty years of it,"answered Meschini house which she had not lately visited. She in a niuftled voice. Her presenco tortured him hesitated a moment only, considering how she beyond expression. “ That is a long time, and could best reach it without passing through the I am not an old man." study, and without going up the grand staircase “And are you always alone here? Do you to the outer door. A very little reflection never go out? What do you do all day?" showed her that she could get into the corridor “I work among the books, Excellency. There from a passage near her own room. In a few are twenty thousand volumes here, enough to minutes she was at the entrance to the great to occnpy a man's time." hall, trying to turn the heavy carved brass “Yes--but how? Do you have to read them handle of the latch. To her surprise she could all?" asked Faustina, innocontly. “Is that not open the door, which was evidently fastened your work ? " from within. Then as she shook it in the hope "I have readmany more than would be that someone would hear hor, a strango cry believed for my own pleasure. But my work reached her cars, like that of a startled animal, is to keep them in order, to see that thore is no accompanied by the shuffling of feot. She variation from the catalogue, so that wijn remembered Meschini's walk, and understood learned men come to make inquiries they may that it was he. find what they want. I have also to take care “Please let me in!" she called out in her' of all the books, to see that they do not suffer clear young voice, that echoed back to her from in any way. They are very valuable. There is the vaulted chamber. a fortuno bere."

XXVIER ŞANTILARIO ,161 Somehow being he felt less nervous when he began back now perhaps by the effort to fix his attento speak of the library and its contents, and the tion upon the precious book. His large, coarse words cáma moro" easily to him. With a little ears appeared to point themselves forward like onoaurágement he might even become loquacious. those of an animal, following the direction of In spite of his faco, Faustina began to feel an his sight. In outward appvarance he presented interest in him. a strange mixture of dilapidation, koenness, and It must be very hard work,” she remarked. brutality. A week had changed him very much. "Do you like it ? Did you nover want to do A few days ago most people would have looked anything else? I should think you would grow at him with a sort of careless compassion. tired of being always alone.” Now, there was about him something distinctly "I am very patient,” answered Meschini, repulsive. Beside Faustina's youth and delicacy, humbly. “ And I am used to it. I grew and freshness, he hardly seemned like a human accustomed to the life when I was young.' "You say the collection is valuable. Are I suppose it is a very wonderful thing,' there any very beautiful books? I would like said the young girl at last, but I do not know to see sorve of them." enough to understand its value. Do my brothers The fair young creature sat down upon one of over come to the library?” She leaned back the high carved chairs at the end of a table, from the volume and glanced at Meschini's face, Meschini went to the other side of the hall and wondering how Heaven could have made anyunlocked one of the drawers which lined the ing so ugly lower part of the bookcases to the height of three “No. They never come," replied the librarian, or four free. Each was heavily carved with the drawing the book towards him instinctively, as Montevarchi arnis in high relief. It was in he would have done if his visitor had been these receptacles that the precious manuscripts a stranger, who might try to steal a page or were kept in their cases. Ho returned bringing two unless he were watched. a small square volume of bound manuscript, and “But my poor father was very fond of the laid it before Faustina. books, was he not? Did he not often come to “This is worth an enormous sum,” he said. see you here?" "It is the only completo one in the world. She was thinking so little of Meschini that There is an imperfect copy in the library of the she did not see that ho turned suddenly white Vatican.' and shook like a man in all aguo. It was what 6. What is it?" he had feared all aloug, ever since she had “It is the Montevarchi Dante, the oldest in, entered the room. She suspected him and had existence." como, or had perhaps been sent by San Giacinto Taustina turned over the leaves curiously, 'to draw him into conversation and to catch him and admired the even writing, though she could in soinething which could be interpreted to be not read many of the words, for the ancient i confession of his crime. Had that been her charactors wero strange to her. It was a intention, his behaviour would have left little wonderful picture that the couplo made in the doubt in her mind as to the truth of the accusagreat hall. On every side the huge carved book- tion. His face betrayed him, his uncontrollable cases of walnut, black with age, rose from the fear, his frightened eyes and trembling limbs. floor to the spring of the vault, their dark faces But she hari only glanced at him, and ler sight reflected in the highly-polished floor of coloured waulered to the bookcases for a moment. When marble. Across the ancient tables a ray of she looked again he was moving away from her, sunlight fell from the high clorestory window. along the table. She was surprised to see that In the contre, the two figures with the old his step was uncertain, and that he reeled inanuscript between them: Faustina's angel against the heavy piece of furniture and grasped head in a high light against the dusky back. it for support. She started a little but did not ground, as she bent forward a little, turning rise. the yellow pagos with her slender, transparent · Are you ill?" she asked. "Shall I call fingers, the black folds of her full gowu making somcono?" heavy linos of drapery, graceful by her grace, Ho made no answer, but seened to recover and rendered less severe by a sort of youthful. hintself at the sound of her voice, for he shuffled ness that scemed to pervadlo them, and that away and disappeared behind the high carved emanated from herself. Beside her, tho bent desk on which lay the open catalogue. She frame of the broken down librarian, in a humble thought she saw a flash of light reflected from and respectful attitude, his long arms hanging some smooth surface, and immediately afterdown by his sides, his shabby black coat almost wards she heard a gurgling sound, which she dragging to his hoels, his head bent forward as did not understand. Meschini was fortifying he looked at the pages. All his features seemed himself with a draught. Then he reappeared, to havo grown more sharp and yellow and walking moru steadily. He had received pointed, and there was now a deep red flush in severe shock, but, as usual, he had not the the upper part of his cheeks. À momentary nourage to run away, conceiving that fight light Bhone in his grey eyes, from beneath the would inevitably be regarded as a proof of guilt. bushy brows, a light of intelligence euch as had "I am not well,” he said in explanation as he formerly characterised them especially, brought returned. “I am obliged to take medicine 162 SANT' ILARIO CI. continually. I beg your Excellency to forgive a vehemence not usual for her. They sus me.” pocted me, as if I could have done it, I, a weak "I am sorry to hear that,"answered Faustina girl! And yet-if I had the neln before me Kindly. “Can ve do nothing for you? Have the man who murdered him--I believe I would you all you need : kill him with my hands !" Everything, thank you. I shall soon be She moved forward a little as she spoko, well." and tapped her small foot upon the pavenient, “I hope so, I am sure. What wils I saying? as though to enphasise her words." Her soft Oh I was asking whether my poor father came brown eyes flashed with righteous anger, and often to the library. Was lie fond of the her cheek grew pale at tho thought of avenging books?" her father. There must have been something * His Excellency -- Heaven give him glory! very fierce in her young face, for Meschini's he was a learned man. Yes, ho came now heart failed him, and his nerves scemed to and then.' Meschini took possession of the collapse all at once. He tried to rlraw baok manuscript, and carried it off rather suddenly from her, slipped, and foll upon his knoes with to its place in the drawer. He was a long time a sharp cry of fear. Even then, Faustina did in locking it up. Faustina watched him with not suspect the cause of his weakness, but some curiosity. attributed, it to the illness of which he had “ You were here that day, were you not ?" spoken. She sprang forward and attonipted to she asked, as he turned towards her once more. help the poor creature to his feet, but instead The question was a natural one, considering of making an effort to rise, le seenied to be the circumstances. grovelling before her, uttering incoleret excla- “I think your Excellency was present when mations of terror. I was examined by the prefect," answered “Lean ou me!” said Faustina, putting out Meschini, in a curiously disagreeable: tone. her hand. " What is the natter? Oh ! Are " True," said Faustina. "You said you had you going to clie!" been hero all day as usual. I had forgotten. "Oh! Oh! Do not hurt me--pray--in God's How horrible it was. And you saw nobody, name !"cricd Meschini, raising his eyes timidly. you heard nothing? But I suppose it is too far “Hurt you? No! Why should I hurt you? from the study." You are ill-- we will have the doctor. Try and T'he librarian did not answer, but it was get up-try and get to a chair." evident from his manner that he was very much Her tone reassured him a little, and her touch disturbed. Indeed, he fancied that his worst also, as she did her best to raise him to his feet. fears were realised, and that Faustina was He struggled a little, and at last stood up, really trying to extract information from bim leaning upon the bookcase and panting with for his own conviction. Her thoughts were fright. actually very far from any such idea. She " It is nothing," he tried to say, catching his would have considered it quite as absurd to breath at every syllable. “I am better-ny accuse the poor wretch before her as she had 'nerves- your Excellency.ugh! what a coward thought it outrageous that she herself should be I ani !" suspected. Her father had always seemed to her The last exclamation, uttered in profound a very imposing personage, and she could not disgust of his own weakness, struck Faustiña as conceive that he should have met his death at very strange. the hands of such a miserable creature as "Did I frighten you?" she asked in surprise. Arnoldo Meschini, who cortainly had not the “I am very sorry. Now sit down and I will outward signs of physical strength or bold. call someone to come to you.' ross. He, however, understood her words very No, 110 ! Please--I would rather be alone! clifferently, and stood still, half way between I can walk quite well now. If-if your Exlier and the bookcases, asking himself whether cellency will excuso me, I will go to niy xoom. it would not be better to take immediate steps I have more inedicine--- I will take it and I shall for his safety His hand was behind him, 'be better." feeling for the revolver in the pocket of his long Can you go alone ? Aro you sure?" asked cout. Faustina was singularly fearless by nature, Faustina anxiously. But even while sho spoko Irut if she had guessed the danger of her posi- he was moving towards the door, slowly and tion, she would probably havo cffected her painfully at first, as it seemed, though possibly escape very quickly, instead of continuing the à lingering thought of propriety kept him from (onversation. appearing to run away. The young girl walked “ It is a very dreadful mystery,” she said, a fow steps after him, half-tearing that he might rising from her chair and walking slowly across fall agaiss . But he kept his feet and reached the the polished marble floor until she stood before threshold. Then he inade a quoor attempt at a row of great volumes of which the colour a bow and mumblcd some words that Faustina Had attracted hor eye. " It is the duty of us could not hear. In another moment he hafl dis. all to try and explain it. Of course, we shall appeared, and she was alone. know all about it some day, but it is very hard For some minutes she looked at the closed to be patient. Do you know?" sho turned door through which he had gone out. Then she suddenly and faced Meschini, speaking with shook her head a little sadly, and slowly went to XXX SANT' ILARIO 163 back to her room by the way sho had come. It coming to take possession of the spoil. His was all very strango, she thought, but his illness wifo had no share in this gonerons sentiment. might account for it. She would have liked to She would have liked to enjoy her triumph to consult San Giacinto, but though she was out- tho full, for she was exceedingly ambitious, wardly on good terms with him, and could not and was, moreover, not very fond of the Sarahelp feeling a sort of respect for his manly cinesca. As she expressed it, she felt when character, the part ho had played in attempting she was with any of them, from tho old to separate her from Gonacho had prevented the prince to Corona, that thoy inust be thinking two from becoming intimate. She said nothing all the tinie that she was a very foolish young anyone about her interview with Meschini in person. San Giacinto's action was therefore the library, and no one even guessed that she spontaneous, and if it neerls explanation it may had been there. be ascribed to an inherited magnanimity, to it certain dignity which had distinguished him even as a young man from the low class in which he had grown up. He was, indeel, by CHAPTER XXIX no means a type of tho perfect nobleman; his conduct in the allair between Faustina and In spito of his haste to settle all that remained Gouacho had shown that. Ho acted according to be settled with regard to the restitution of to his lights, and was not ashamed to do things the property to San Giacinto, Saracinesca found which his cousin Giovanni would have calleel it in possible to wind up the affair in a week as mean, But lie was manly, for all that, and if he had intended. It was a very complicated he owed some of his dignity to great stature matter to separate from his present fortune that and to his indomitablo will, it was also in part of it which his cousin would have inheriterl a measuro the outward sign of a good heart and from his great-graulfather. A great deal of of an innate sense of justice. There had as yet wealth had come into the family since that time been nothing islonost in his dealings since he by successivo marriages, and the inanagernent had come to Romo. lIe liad acquireri a fortune of the original estate had not been kept separate which enabled him to take the position that from the administration of the dowries which was lawfully his. He liked Flavia, and had had from time to time been absorbed into it. bargained for her with her father, afterwards The Saracinesca, lowever, were orderly people, scrupulously fulfilling the terms of the contract. and the books had been kept for generations Ho Tuul not represented himself to be what lo with that astonishing precision of detail which was not, and he had taken no unfair advantage is found in the great Roman houses, and which of anyone for his own advancement. In the surpasses, perhaps, anything analogous which is matter of the suit he was the dupe of old to be found in modern business. By dint of Montevarchi, so far as the deeds were concerned, perseverance and by employing a great number, but he was perfectly aware that he actually of persons in making the calculations, the represented the elder branch of his family. notaries had succeeded in preparing a tolerably' It is hard to imagine how any man in his satisfactory schedule in the course of a fort position could have done less than he did ; and night, which both the principal parties agreed now that it had come to a final settlement ho to accept as final. The day fixed for the meeting was really anxious to .cause his vanquished and liquidation of the accounts was a Saturday, relations as littlo humiliation as possible. To it fortaight and two days after the murder of yo to their house was like playing the part of Princo Montevarchi. A question arose concern ir bailitt. To allow them to come to his dwelling ing the place of meeting. suggested the journey to Canossa. The Palazzo) Saracinesca proposed that San Giacinto and Montevarchi was neutral ground, and he prothe notaries should come to the Palazzo Sara- posed that the formalities should be fulfilled cinesche He was ready to brave out the there. Saracinesca consented realily enough situation to the end, to face his fute until it and the day was fixed. held nothing, moro in store for him, even to The notaries arrivedl at ton o'clock in the haurling over the inventory of all that was no morning, accompanical by clerks who were ladon Jonger lis in the house where he had been born. with books, inventories and rolls of manuscript. His boundless courage and almost brutal frank. The study had been selected for the meeting, ness would doubtless have supported him to the both on account of its seclusion from the rest of last, even througli such a trial to his feelings, the house and because it contained an immense but San Giacinto refused to agree to the pro- table which would serve for the voluminous posal. He repeatedly stated that he wished the documents, all of which must be examined and old prince to inhabit the palace through his verified. San Giacinto himself awaited the lifetime, and that he should even make every arrival of the Saracinesca in the great reception offct to induco hiin to retain the title. "Both room. Ho had sent his wifo away, for he was of these offors were rejected courteously, but in reality by 110 mcans so calın as he appeared firmly. In the matter of holding the decisive to be, and her coustant talk disturbed him. meeting in the palace, however, San Giacinto Ho paced the long room with regular steps, his made a deterniined stand. He would not on head erect, his hands behind him, stopping from any account appear in the light of the conqueror time to timo to listen for the footsteps of thosc : 164 SANT' ILARIO CH he expected. It was the great day of his life. affair having been legally settled, it is focus to Before pight, he was to bo Prince Saracinesca. make whatever use of it seems better in our The moments that procodo a great triumph own eyes. To deprive you of your name atid of are very painful, especially if a man has looked the house in which you were born and bred, forward to the event for a long time. No would be to offer you an indignity such as matter how sure he is of the result, something I never contemplated.” tells him that it is uncertain. A question may “You cannot be said to deprive us of what. arise, he cannot guess whence, by which all is not ours, by any interpretation of the word may be changed. He repeats to himself with which I am acquainted," said Saracinosca a hundred times that failuro is impossible, but in a tone which showed that he was determined he is not at'rest. The uncertainty of all things, to receive nothing. even of his own life, appears very clearly beforo “I am a poor grammarian," answered San. his eyes. His heart beats fast and slow from Giacinto gravely, and without the slightest one minute to another. At the very instant affectation of humility. "I was brought up when he is dreaming of the future, the possibility a farmer, and was only an innkeeper until of disappointment breaks in upon his thoughts. lately. I cannot discuss with you the subtle He cannot explain it, but he longs to be beyond meanings of words. To my mind it is I who the decisive hour. In San Giacinto's existence, am taking from you that which, if not really the steps from obscurity to importance and yours, you have hitherto had every right to fortune had, of late, been so rapidly ascended own and to make use of. I do not attempt to that he was almost giddy with success. For the explain my thought. I only say that I will first time since he had left his old home in noither take your name nor live in your house Aquila, he felt as though he had been changed while you are alive. I propose a compromise from his own self to some other person. which I hope you will be willing to accept. At last the door opened, and Saracinesca, “I fear that will be inipossible. My mind is Giovanni, and Corona entered the room. San made up." Giacinto was surprised to see Giovanni's wife on “I propose," continued San Giacinto, “that an occasion when the men alone of the family you remain Prince Saracinescu, that you keep were concerned, but she explained that she had Saracinesca itself, and the palace here in Rome come to spend the morning with Faustina, and during your lifetime, which I trust may be would wait till everything was finished. The a long one. After your death everything ineeting was not a cordial one, though both returns to us. My cousin Giovanni and tho parties regarded it as inevitable. If Saracinesca Princess Sant'Ilariofelt any personal resentment against San " You may call mo Corona, if you please,' Giacinto he knew that it was unreasonable and said the princess suddenly. Her eyes were he had not the bad taste to show it. He was fixed on his face, and she was smiling. silent, but courteous in his manner. Giovanni, Both Saracinesca and Giovanni looked at her strange to say, scemed wholly indifferent tó in surprise. It seemed strange to them that what was about to take place. she should choose such a moment for admitting "I hope," said San Giacinto, when all four San Giacinto to a familiarity he had never were seated, " that you will consent to consider before enjoyed. But for some time she had felt this as a mere formality. I have said as much a growing respect for the ex-innkeeper, wnich through my lawyers, but I wish to repeat it was quickened by his present generosity, San myself in better words than they used. Giacinto's swartly face grew a shade darkar as “Pardon me," answered Saracinesca, “if I the blood mounted to his lean cheeks. Corona suggest that we should not discuss that matter. had given him one of the first sensations of We are sensible of your generosity in making genuine pleasure he had ever experienced in such offers, but we do not consider it possible his rough life. to accept them." " Thank you," he said simply. "You'two, "I must ask your indulgence if I do not act I was going to say, have palaces of your own upon your suggestion,” returned San Giacinto, and cannot have such close associations with Even if there is no discussion I cannot consent the old places as one who has owned them to proceed to business until I have explained during so many years. You," he continued, what I mean. If the suit has been bettled turning to the old prince, "will, I hope, accept justly by the courts, it has not been decided an arrangement which cannot affect your dignity with perfect justice as regards its consoquences. and which will give me the greatest satisfaction. I do not deny, and I understand that you do “I am very much obliged to vou," answered not expect me to act otherwise, that it has been Saracineaca promptly. " You are very generous, my intention to secure for myself and for my but I cannot take what you offer.' children the property and the personal position “If you feel that you would be taking'anyabandoned by my ancestor. I have obtained thing from me, look at it from a different point what I wanted and what was my right, and of view. You would be conferring a favour I have to thank you for the magnanimity you instead of accepting one. Consider my position, have displayed in not attempting to contest when I have taken your place. It will not be & claim against which you might have brought a pleasant one. Tho world will abuso mo many arguments, if pot manch evidence. The roundly, and will say I have behaved abominably 23 6 XXIX SANT' ILARIO 105 towards you. Do you fanoy that I shall be show the way to the study. Saracineaca made received as a substitute for the Prince Sara- a show of refusing to go out first, then yielded cinosca your friends have known so long? Do and went on. San Giacinto waited at the door you suppose that the vicissitudes of my life are for Corona and Giovanni." unknown, and that no one will laugh behind my "I will join you in a moment I know the back and point at me as the new upstart prince? way,” said the latter, remaining behind with Fow people know me in Rome, and if I have his wife. any friends besides you, I have not been made When they wero alone he led her towards aware of the fact. Pray consider that in doing one of the windows, as though to be doubly what I ask, you would be saving me from very sure that no one could hear what he was about unpleasant social consequences. to say. Then he stúod still and looked into her "I should be doing so at the cost of my self- eyes. respect,"replied the old man firmly. “Whatever "Would you liko us to accept such a favour the consequences are to you, the means of bearing from him?" he asked. "Tell me the truth." them will be in your hands. You will have no No," answered Corona, without the loast lack of friends to-morrow, or at least of amiable hesitation. “But I am sorry for San Giacinto. persons anxious to call themselves by that I think he is really trying to do right, and to name. They will multiply this very night, like be generous. He was hurt by your father's mushrooms, and will come about you freshly answer. shaved and smiling to-morrow morning. "If I thought it would give you pleasure to "I am afraid you do not understand me,” feel that we could go to Saracinesca, I would said San Giacinto. “I can leave you tho title, try and make my father change his mind." and yet tako one which will serve as well. You "Would you?” She knew very well what would call yourself Prince Saracinesca, Aud a sacrifice it would be to his pride. I should be Saracinesca di San Giacinto. As “Yes, dear. I would do it for you.” for the palace and the place in the mountains, "Giovanni-how good you are!" they are so insignificant as compared with the “No-I am not good. I love you. That is rest that it could not hurt your self-rospect to all. Shall I try?" live in them. Can you not persuade your “Never! I am sorry for San Giacinto-but father?” He turned to Giovanni, who had not I could no more live in the old houso, or in spoken yet. Saracinesca, than you could. Do I not feel all “You are very good to make the proposal,” that you feel, and more?" he answered. "I cannot say more than that. *Ally" I agreo with my father." A silence follower which lasted several They stood hand in hand looking out of the minutos. Corona looked from one to the other window, and there were tears in the eyes of of the three men, wondering liow the matter both. The grasp of their fingers tightened would end. She understood both parties better slowly as though they were drawn together than they understood cach other. She sympa- by an irresistible force. Slowly they turned thised with the refusal of her husband and his their faces towards each othor, and presently father. To accept such an offer would put their lips met in one of those kisses that are them in a position of obligation towards San never forgotten. Then Giovanni left her where Giacinto which she knew they could never she was. All had been said ; hoth knew that enduro, and which would be galling to herself. they desired nothing more in this world, and On the other hand, she felt sorry for their that henceforth they were all to each other. It cousin, who was evidently trying to do what was as though a good angel had set a heavenly he felt was right and generous, and was dig. seal upon the reunion of their hearts. appointed that his advances should be repelled. Corona did not leavo the room immediately, He was very much in earnest, or he would not but remained a few moments leaning against the have gone so far as to suggest that it would be heavy frame of the window. Hor queenly & favour to him if they took what he offered. figure drooped a little, and sho pressed one hand Ho was so simple, and yet so dignified withal, to her side. Her dark face was bent down, and that she could not help liking him. It was not the tears that had of old come so rarely made : clear to her, however, that she could mend silver lines upon her olive cheeks. There was matters by interfering, nor by offering aclvice to not one drop of bitterness in that overflowing the one or sympathy to the other. of her soul's transcendent joy, in that happiness Saracinesca himself was the first to break the which was so great and perfect that it seemed silence. It seemed tn him that everything had almost unbearable. been said, and that nothing now remained but And she had reason to be glad. In the midst to fulfil the requisite formalities. of a calamity which would have absorbed the “Shall we proceed to business?" he inquired, whole nature of many men, Giovanni had not as though ignoring all the previous conversation. one thought that was not for her. Giovanni, “I believe we have a great deal to do, and the who had once doubted her, who had said such time is passing." things to her as she dared not remember San Giacinto made no reply, but rose gravely Giovanni, suffering under a blow to his pride, and mado e gesture signifying that he would that was worse almost than total ruiñ, had but "All." ..

166 SANT ILARIO ; . ono wish, to make another sacrifice for her. though sho were repenting of some fearful That false past, of which she hated to think, crime. was gone like an evil dream before the morning "Is that all, darling?" asked Corona, smiling sun; that true past, which was her whole life, at the girl's innocence, and pressing her load was niarle present again. The love that had tenderly to her own broast. "Is that what been so bi ed and crished that she had thought makes you so unhappy?' it dead had prung up again from its deep, 6. Yes is it not - very, very drea:lful ?" strong roots, grandor and noblur than before. A fresh shower of tears accompanied the The certainty that it was real was overwhelming, question. and drowned all her senses in a trance of lighi. * Perhaps I am very bad, too,” said Corona: Faustina Montevarchi entered tho drawing. “But I do not call that wickedness." room softly, thun, seeing no one, she advanced “Oh no! You are good. I wish I were like till she came all at on upon Corona in the you!" embrąsuru of the window. The princess started 'No, do not wislı that. But, I confess, it slightly when she saw that she was not alone. scomy to ino natural that you should think as Corona !" cxclaimed the young girl. “Are you do, because it is really true. Your father, you crying? What is it? Haustina, may have been mistaken abont your “Oh, Faustina! I am so happy !" It was future. If--if he lacl livel, you might perhaps a relief to be able to sy it to someone. have more him chilge his mind. At all ovonts, “ Happy?” repeat Faustina in irprise. you can hope that lie now sees more clearly, "But there are tears in your eyes, on your that he understands how terrible it is for cheeks it woman to be married to a man she does not You cannot understand ---I do not wouler.-- love.-when she is sure that she loves another.' how should you? An besicles, I cannot tell “Yey--you told me. Do you remember? It you what it is.' was the other day, after Flavia haul been saying “I wish I were you," answcreat her friend such «lreadful things. But I know it already. sadly. “I wish I were happy! Every woman must know it." "What is it, child ?” asked Corona kindly. There was a short pause, during which Corona. Then she led Faustina to a stiff olul sofa at me wondered whether she were the same person she end of the vast room and they sat down together. had been ien days earlier, when she hail delivered “What is it?" she repeated, drawing the girl that passionate warning. Faustina sat quite affectionately to her sile. still, looking up into the princess's face. She * You know what it is, dear. No one can was comforted and reassured, and the tears had help me. Oh, Carna! we love and other so ceascal to flow. "There is something else,” she saiil at last. "I know I know it is very real. "I want to tell you everything, for I can tell must have a little patience, darling... Love will no one else. I cannot keep it to myself either. win in the end. Just non, too-----" She did He has written to me, Corona. not finish the sentence, but she had toucher a wrong to read his letter ?” This time she sensitive spot in Faustina's conscience. siniler a little and blushed. “That is the worst of it," was the answer. "I do not think it was very wrong,"answered “I am so miserable, because I hnow ho never her friend, with a soft langh. She was sc. happy would havo allowed it, and now.--I am ashanied that she would have laughed at anything. to tell you, it is so heartless !" She hid her face "Shall I show you his letter?" asked the on her friend's shoulder, young girl, slyly. At the samo time her hand “You will never be heartless, my dear Faus. disappeared into the pocket of her black gown, tina," said Corona. " What you think, is not and immediately afterwards brought out á your fault, dear, Love is master of the world folded piece of paper which looked as though it and of 18 all." had hecn read several times. “But my love is not like yours, Corona. Corona did not think it necessary to express Perhaps yours was once like mine. But you are her assent in words. Faustina opened the note, marriedl -- you are happy. You were saying so which contained the following wärds written in just now. | Gouache's delicate French handwriting:--- "Yes, dear. I am very, very happy, because I love very, very dearly. You will be as happy MADEMOISELLE,+-When you have read these as I am some day. lines, you will understand my object in writing Ah, that may be --but--I am dreadfully them, for you understand me, and you know wicked, Corona !" that all I dla has but oge objcct. A few days " You, child? You do not know what it is to ago it was still possible for us to meet frequently. think anything bad !” The terrible affliction which has fallen upon you, "But I do. I am so much ashamed of it that and, in which none can feel deeper or more sincero I can hardly tell you-only I tell you everything, sympathy than I, has put it out of your power because you are my friend. Corona-it and out of mine to join hands and weer over tho horrible--it secns masier, more possible now present, to look into cach other's eyes and reall that he is gone-oh! I am so glad I have told there the golden fegend of a futuro happiness. you!" Faustina began to sob passionately, ale to meet as we have met, alone in the croweled very much!" But you Was it very 16 $ XXIX SANT' ILARIO 167 church.-10! we canriot do it. For you, at such stylo it contained certain phrases that came a time, it would seem like a disrespect to your from the heart. Corona understood why Fausfather's memory: For myself, I should deem it tina was pleased with it, and why instead of dishonourable. I should appear base in my own shedding useless tears over his absence, she had eyes. Did I not go to him and put to him the shown such willingness to let her friend road groat question? Was I not repulsed—I do not Gonache's own explanation of his departure. say with insult, but with astonishment--at my She folded the sheet of paper again and gave presumption? Shall I then seem to take advan- it back to the young girl. tago of his death--of his sudden and horrible "I am glad he wrote that letter," she said death--to press forward a suit which he is no after a nioment's pause. “I always believed tonger able to oppose? I feel that it would be in him, and now--well,. I think, ho is almost wrong. Though I cannot express myself as worthy of you, Faustina." I would, I know that you understand me, for Faustina threw her arms around Corona's you think as I do. How could it be otherwise? neck, and kissed her again and again. Are we not one indivisible soul, we two? Yes, “I am so glad you know how good he is !” you will understand me. Yes, you will know she cried. "I could not be happy unless you that it is right. I go therefore, I leave Rome liked hin, and you do." immediately. I cannot inhabit the same city All through the morning the two friends sat and not see you. But I cannot quit the Zonaves together in the great drawing-room talking, as in this time of danger. I am therefore going to such women can talk to each other, with infinite Viterbo, whither Im sont through the friendly grace about matters not worth recording, or if assistance of one of our officers. There I shall they spoke of things of greater importance, restay until time has soothed your grief and peating the substance of what they had said restored your mother to health. To her wo will before, finding at each repetition some new turn whon the moment has arrived. She will comment to make, some new point upon which not be insensible to our tears and entreatios. to agree, after the manner of people who are Until then, good-bye..ah! the word is less very fond of each other. The hours slipped by, terrible than it looks, for our souls will be and they were conscious of the lapse of time. always together. I leave you but for a short The great clocks of the neighbouring church space----Do! I leave your sweet eyes, your angel's towers tolled eleven, twelvo, and one o'clock, face, your dear hands that I adore, but yourself and yet they had more to say, and did not even I do not leave. I bear you with me in a heart notice tho loul ringing of the hundred bells. that loves yo11--God knows how tenderly." The day was clear, and the bright sunlight streamed in through the high windows, telling Corona road the letter carefully to the end. the hour with a more fateful precision than the To her older appreciation of tho world, such clocks outside. All was peace and happiness a letter appeared at first to be the forerunner of and sweet intercourse, as the two women sat a detinite break, but a littlo reflection inade her there undisturbed through the long morning, change her mind. What he said was clearly They talked, and laughed, and held their hands true, and corresponder losely with Faustina's clasped together, inconscious of the rest of the own view of the case. The most serious obstacle world. No sound penetrated from the rest of to the union of the lovers had been removed by the house to the quiet, sunlit hall, which to Prince Montevarchi's death, and it was incon. Faustina's mind had never looked so cheerful ceivable that Gouache should have ceased to before since she could remember it. care ,for Faustinit at the very moment when within the walls of tho huge old palace strange ile chance of his marrying her bad presented things were passing, things which it was well itself. Besides, Corona knew Gouache well, that neither of them should see. and wis not mistaken in her estimate of his Before describing the events which close this charcter. He was honourable to Quixotism, part of my story, it is as well to say that and perfectly capable of refusing to take what Faustina has made her last appearance for the looked like an unfair advantage. Considering present. From the point of view which would Faustina's strange nature, her amazing readiness have been taken by most of her acquaintances, to yield to first impulser, and her touching her marriage with Gouache was a highly im. imöcence of evil, it would have been an easy probable event. If anyone desires an apology matter for the man she loved to draw her into for being left in uncertainty as to her fate, a runaway match. She would have followed I can only answer that I am writing the history him as reaclily to th: ds of the earth as she of the Saracinesca and not of anyone else. had followed him to the Serristori barracks. There aro certain stages in that history which Gouache was not a boy, and probally under are natural halting-places for the historian himstood her peculiarities as well as anyone. In self, and for his readers if he have any; and it going away for the present he was undoubtedly is impossible to make the lives of a number of anging with tho greatest delicacy, for his de- people coincide so far as to wind them up to. parture showed at once all the respect he felt gether, and yet be sure that they will run down for Faustina, and all that devotion to an ideal at the same moment like the clocks of His honour which was the foundation of his being. Majesty Charles the Fifth. If it were, the Though his epistlo was not a model of literary 'world would be a very different place. And yet 268 -. SANT ILARIO CH. which provented him from spending his time CHAPTER XXX with his wife: In the middle of the table sat the two Tas scene in the study, while the notary read notaries, fanked by four clerks, all of thon through the voluminous documents, is worth pale men in blacli, clean shaved, of various ages, describing At one end of the large green but bearing on their faces the almost un. table sat San Giacinto alone, his form, oven as mistakable stamp of their profession. The one he sat, towering above the rest. The mourning who was reading the deeds wore spectacles he wore harmonised with his own dark and From time to time he pushed them back upon massive head. His expression was calm and his bald forehead and glanced first at San thoughtful, betraying neither satisfaction nor Giacinto and then at Prince Saracinesca, aftur triumph. From timo to time his deep-get eyes which he carefully resettled the glasses upon turned towards Saracinesca with a look of his long nose and proceeded with his task until inquiry, as though to assure himself that the he had reached the end of another set of clauses, prince agreed to the various points and was when ho repeated the former operation with aware that he must now speak for the last time, mechanical regularity, never failing to give San if he spoke at all. At the other end of tho Giacinto the precedence of the first look. board the tiyo Saracinesca wero seated side by For a long time this went on, with a monotony side. The strong resemblance that existed which almost drovo Giovanni from the room. between them was made very apparent by their Indeed nothing but absoluto necessity could position, but although, allowing for the difference have kept him in his place. At last the final decu of their ages, their features corresponded almost was reached. It was an act of restitution drawn line for line, their expressions were totally up in a simple form so as to include, by a few different. The old man's grey hair and pointed words, all the preceding documents. It set forth beard seemed to bristle with suppressed excite. that Leone Saracinesca being "free in body and mont. His heavy brow3 wore bent togother, mind," the son of Giovanni Saracinesca deceased, as though he were making a great effort to “whom may the Loril preserve in a state of control his temper, and now and then there was glory," restored, gave back, yielded, and an angry gleam in his eyes. He sat square and abandonerl all those goods, titles, and benefices erect in his seat, as though he were facing an which he had inherited directly from Leone Saraenemy, but ho kept his hands below the table, cinesca, the eleventh of that name, deceased, for he did not choose that San Giacinto should "whom may the Lord preserve in & state see the nervous working of his fingers. Giovanni, of glory;" to Giovanni Saracinesca, Marchese on the other hand, looked upon the proceedings di San Giacinto, who was “ free in body and with an indifference that was perfectly apparent. mind," son of Orsino Saracinesca, ninth of Ho occasionally looked at his watch, suppressed that name, deceased, “whom may the Lord a yawn, and examined his nails with great &o.' Not ono of the quaint stock phrases was interest. It was clear that he was not in the omitteil. The notary paused, looked round, least movel by what was going on. It was no adjusted his spectacles and continued. Tho light matter for the old nobleman to listen to deed further set forth that Giovanni Saracinesca,, the documents that deprived him one by one of Marchese di San Giacinto aforesaid, acknowhis titles, his cstates, and his other wealth, in ledged the receipt of the aforesaid goods, titles, favour of a man who was still young, and whom, and beuefices, and stated that he received all as in spito of the relationship, he could not help the completa inheritance, relinquishing all regarding as an inferior He had always con- further claims against the aforesaid Leope and sidered himself as the representative of an older his heirs for ever. Once more the reader generation, who, by right of position, was paused, and then read the last words in a clear entitiod to transmit to his son the wholo mass voiceof those proud traditions in which he had grown “Both the noble parties promising, finally, in up as in his natural element. Giovanni, on the regard to the present cession, to take a count contrary, possessed a goodly sharo of that of it, to hold it as acceptable, valid, ande indifference that characterises the younger men porpetual, and, for the same, never to allow it of the nineteenth century. He was perfectly to ho spoken of otherwise." satisfied with his present situation, and had A few words followed, setting forth the name been so long accustomed to depend upon his of tho notary and the statement that the act personality and his private fortune, for all that was oxecuted in his presence, with the date he enjoyeri or required in life, that he did not When he had finished reading all, he rose and desire the responsibilities that weigh heavily turned the document upon the table so that the upon the head of a great family. Moreover, two par ich could stand opposite to him and sign recent events had turned the current of his it. Without a word he made a slight inclination thoughts into a different direction. He was in and offered the pen to Saracinesca. The old his way as happy as Corona, and ho knew that gentleman pushed back his chair and maralied real happiness process from something more forward with crect head and a firm step to sign than a score of title and a few millions of away wbat liad been his birthright. Frohn first money, more or less. He regarded the long to last he had acknowledged the justice of his morning's work as an intolerable nuisance, cousin's claims, and he was not the man to waves SANT ILARIO 169 ht the supreme moment. His hair bristled more proclaimed his total degradation. But inharto stifly than ever, and his dark eyes shot fire, no one had notioed him, for ho had listed but he took the pen and wrote his great strong between his attio, tho, deserted library and signature as clearly as he had written" it at the the apothecary's shop on the island of Saint foot of his marriage contraot five-and-thirty Bartholomew. His mind had almost ceased years earlier. Giovanni looked at him with to act when he was awake, except in response admiration. to the fear which the smallest circumstances Then San Giacinto, who had risen out of W caused him. If he had dreams by respect to the old man, came forward and took night, he saw visions also in the day, and the pen in his turn. He wrote out his name in his visions generally took the shape of San traight, firm characters as usual, but at the end Giacinto. He had not really seen hina since he the ink' mado a broad black mark that ended had met him whon the prince lay in state, but abruptly, as though the writer had put the last the foar of him was, if anythiag, greater than stroke to a great undertaking, if he had met him daily. The idea that the “There should be two witnesses," said the giant was lying in wait for him had become notary in the awkward silence that followed. fixed, and yet he was powerless to fly. His "Don Giovanni can be one," he added, giving energy was all gone between his potations and the latter the only name that was now his, with the constant terror that paralysod him. a lawyer's scrupulous exactness. On that morning he had been as usual to the “One of your clerks can be the other," Ponte Quattro Capi, and had returned with the suggested Saracinesca, who was anxious to get means of sleep in his pocket. Ho had no away as soon as possible. instinct left but to deaden his sensations with " It is wiot usual,” replied the notary. “ Is drink during the hours of light, while waiting there no one in the palace ? One of the young for the time when he could lie down and yield princes would do admirably." to the more poteut influence of tho opium. He They are all away, " said San Giacinto. had therefore come back as usual, and by forco "Let me see-thero is the librarian. Will be of habit had taken his place in tho library, the answer the purpose ? He must be in the library fear of seeming to neglect his supposed duties at this hour. A respectable man-ho has been 'forbidding him to spend all his time in his room. thirty years in the house. For that matter, the As usual, too, he had locked the door of the steward is probably in his office, too." passago to separate himself from his dread of “The librarian is the best person,” answered a supernatural visitation. He sat doubled the notary: together in his chair, his long arms lying out “I will bring him at once-I know the way.", before him upon the books and papers. San Giacinto left the study hy the door that All at once he started in his seat. One, two, opened upon the passage. The others could one, two-yes, there were footsteps in the hear his heavy steps as he went rapidly up the corridor--they were coming nearer and nearer--- paved corridor. Old Saracinesca walked up heavy, like those of the dead prince--but and down the room unablo to conceal his quicker, like those of San Giacinto-closer, impatier.ce. Giovanni resuned his seat and closer yet. A hand turned the latch once, twice, waited quietly, indifferent to the last. then shook the lock roughly. Meschini was Arnoldo Meschini was in the library, as San helpless. He could neither get upon his feet Giacinto had anticipated. Ho was seated at and escape by the other exit, nor find the way his usual place at the upper end of the hall, to the pocket that held his weapon. Again the surrounded by books and writing materials latch was turned and shaken, and then the deep which he handled nervously without making voico he dreaded was heard calling to him. any serious attempt to use them. Ho had lost 'Signor Meschini!" all power of concentrating his thoughts or of Ho shrieked aloud with fear, but he was making any effort to work. Fortunately for him paralysed in every limb. A moment later no one had paid any attention to him during the a terrible crash drowned his cries. San Giacinto, past ten days. His appearance was dishevelled on hearing his agonised scream, had foared some and slovenly, and he was more hent than he had accident. Ho drew back a step, and then, with formerly been. His oyes were bleared and glassy a spring, threw his colossal strength against the as he stared at tho table before hini, assuming line where the leaves of the door joined. The a wild and startled expression when, looking up, lock broke in its sockets, the panels cracked he fancied he saw some lorrible object gliding under the tremendous pressuro, and the door quickly across the sunny flodr, or creoping up flow wide open. In a moment San Giacinto was to him over the polished table. All his former standing over the librarian, trying to drag hini air of humility and shabby respecta'ility was back from the table and out of his seat. He gone. His disordered dress, his Wraggling thought the man was in a fit. In reality he greyish hair that hung from beneath tho dirty was insane with terror. black skullcap around his mis-shapen ears, his "An easy cleath, for the love of Heaven!” fato, yellow in parts and irregularly Aushed in mouned the wretch, twistâng himself under the others, as though it were beginning to be irod hands that held wimby the shoulders. scorched from within, his unwashed hands, "For God's sake! I will tell you all do not every detail of his appearance, in short, torture memoh oh!-only let it be easy- and 66 15 were 1) me ?" ear. but no one heard him. The walls were thick, others? 170 SANT' ILARIO сн.. quick-yes, I tell you I killed the prince-oh, dragged the shapeless mass of humanity in and ntorcy, mercy, for Christ's sake!" flung it half way across tho room, so that it San Giacinto's grip tightened, and his face sank in a heap at the old princo's feet. grow livid. He lifted Meschini bodily from the “There is the witnoss to the deeds," he cried chair and sot him against the table, holding savagely. "He forged them, and he shall him up at arm's length, his deep eyes blazing witness them in holl. He killed his master in with a rage that would soon he uncontrollable. this very room, and here he shall tell the truth Meschini's naturally strong constitution did not before he dies. Confess, you dog! And be afford him the relief of fainting. quick about it, or I will holp you. “You killed hin--why!" asked San Giacinto Ho stirred the grovelling creature with his through his tecth, scarcely able to speak. foot. Meschini only rolled from side to sisks, “For you, for you-oh, have inorcy.--do and hid his face against the floor. Then the notgigantic hands seized him again and set him on “Silence!" cried the giant in a voice that his feet, and hell him with his face to the eight shook the vault of the ball. “Answer mo, or men, who had all risen and standing I will tear your head from your boily with my together in wondering silence. hands! Why do you say you killed him for 'Speak!” shouted San Giacinto in Meschini's 'You are not dead yet.-yon have much Meschini trembled all over, und then his con- to live through, I hope." torted faco grew almost calm. He had reachel Again that trembling passed over the unfor: that stage which may be called the sonnambu- tunate man's limbs, and ho grew quiet and lism of fear. The perspiration covered hiş skin submissive. It was all as he had seen it in his in an instant, and his voice sank to a distinct wild dreams and visions, the secret chamber whisper. whence no sound conld reach the outer world, He made me forge the deeds, and would not the stern judges all in black, the crucl strength pay me for them. Then I killed him." of San Giacinto realy to torture him. The What cleecis ? shadow of death rose in his eyes. "The deels that have made you Prince "Let me sit down," he said in a broken Saracinesca. If you do not believe me go to voice. my room, tho originals are in the cupboarı. San Giacinto let him to a chair in the midst The key is here, in my right-hand pocket." of them all. Then ho stood before one of the He could not move to get it, for San Giacinto doors, and motioned to his cousin to guard the held him fast, and watched every attempt he other. But Arnoldo Meschini had 10 hope of made at a movement. His Own fare was escape. His hour was at hand, and he knew cleathly pale, and his white lips were com- it. pressed together. "You forged the deeds which were presented “You forged them altogether, and the as originals in the court. Confess it to those originals are untourheil?" lio askell, his yrasp gentlenen." It was San Giacinto who spoke. tightening unconsciously till Meschini yelled ir The prince made me do it," answerell Meschini, in low tones. “ fe promised me "Yes!" ho cricci. “Oh, do not hurt me twenty thousand sculli for the work.' an easy death “ To be paid ..when? Tell all." Come with me," said San Giacinto, leaving "To be paid in cash the day the verdict was his arms and taking him by the collar. Then given.' he dragged and pushed him towards tho “ You canie to get your money hero?”. splintered door of the passage. At the threshold “I came here, He rlenied having promised Meschini writhed and tried to draw back, but anything definite. I grew angry. I killed him." he could no more have escaped from those liands a violent shudder shook his frame from head to that held himn than a lamb can loosen the talons foot. of an eaglo when they are buried deep in the “ You stranglel him with a pocket shandflesh. kerchief?” "Go on!" urged the strong man, in fierie " It was Donna Faustina's? tones. “ You came hy this passage to kill him “The prince threw it on the ground aftor he -you know the way. bad struck her. I saw the quarrel. With a sudden movement of his right hand he waiting for my money. I watched them through launched the howling wretch forward into the the door.” corridor. All through the narrow way Meschinix “ You know that you are to die. Where are cries for mercy resounded, loud and piercing, the deeds you stule when you forged tho and the distance from the inhabited rooms wils "I told you in the cupboard in my room. great. But at last the shrieks reacher the Here is the key. Only--for God's sake study, lp was beginning to break down ago.in. Saracinesca stood till in his walk. Giovanni Perhaps, by the habit of the past days he felt sprang to his feet. who notaries sit in their the need for drink even in that supreme moment, places and trembled. T'he noise came nearur', for his hand sought bis pocket as ho sat. Instoad and then the door flew opet. San Giacinto of the bottlo he felt the cold siccl barrol of the with pain. 19 I was XXX SANT' ILARIO 171 revolver, which he had forgotten. San Giacinto cousin of his. Hopes, such as few men caneyen. looked towards the notary. aspire to entertain, had been suddenly ex. “Is this a full confossion, sufficient to commit tinguished. A future of power and wealth and this man to trml?” he asked. But before the honour, the highest almost that his country ngtary could answer, Meschini's voice sounded could give any man, had been in a moment through the room, not weak and broken, but daslied to pieces before his eyos. Dreams, in loud and clear. which the inost indifferent would see the pro- "It is ! It is !” he cried in sudden and will spect of enormous satisfaction, had vanished excitement. “I have told all. The deeds will into nothing during the last ten minutes, gpeak for themselves. Ah! you would have done almost at the instant when they wero to be better to leave me amongst my books !' He realised. And yet tho man who had hoped turned to San Giacinto. “ You will never be such hopes, who had looked forwölrd to such Princo Saracinesca. But I shall escape you. i future, whose mind must have revolled many You shall not give me a slow death----you shall a time in the visions that were already becoming not, I sity realities-that man stood before them all, out. San Giacinto made a step towards himn. The warılly unmoved, and proposing to his cousin proximity of the man who haul inspired him that he shoull keep as å remonıbrance the with such abject. terror put an end to his words that told of his own terrible disappointhesitation. nient. He was juleed the calmest of those "You shall not!” he almost screaned. “But present. my blood is on your heacl-Ah!” “Shall I tear it to pieces ?” he askerl again, Three deafening reports shook the air in rapid holling the document betwcen his fingers. suu.cession, and all that was left of Arnoldo Then the old prince spoke. Meschini lay in a shapeless heap upon the floor. “Do what you will with it," he answered. While a mun night liavo counted a score there “But give me your hand. You are a braver Was silence in the room. Then San Giacinto man than I.” (ame forward and bent over the body, while the The two men looked into each other's eyes as notaries and their clerks cowered in a corner. their hands mct. Saracinesca and Giovanni stood together, grave , It shall not be the last deed between us," and silent, as brave men are when they have said Saracinesca. "There shall be another. sean a horrible sight and can do nothing. Whatever may be the truth about that villain's Meschini was quite dead. When San Giacinto work you shall have your share---..” hail assured himself of the fact, he looked up. "A few hours ago, you would not take All the fierce rage har vanished from his face, foutes," answered San Giacinto quietly. " Ho is dearl," he siviil quictly". "You all I repeat your own words ? " saw it. You will have to give your evidence in "Well, well...we will talk of that. This has half an hour when the police come. Be good been a terriblo morning's work, and we must do enough to open the door.” other things before we go to business again. IIe took up the body in his arms carefully, That poor man's body is outside the door. but with an case that amazeil those who watched har better attend to that matter first, and send him. Giovanni held the door open, and San for tho police. Giovanni, my boy, will you tell Giacinto deposited his burden gently upou the Corona! I believe she is still in the house." pavement of the corriilor. Then ho turned back / Giovanni needed no urying to go upon his and re-entered the room. The door of the study errand. lle entered the drawing-room where closed for ever on Arnoldo Meschini. Corona was still sitting beside Faustina upon In the lead silence that followed, San Giacinto the sofa. His face must have been pale, for approached the table upon which the deed lay, Corona looked at him with a startled expression. still waiting to be witnessed. He took it in his “Is anything the matter?" she asked. han, and turned to Saracinescn. There was no Something very unpleasant has occurred," neec for hip to exculpate himself from any he answered, looking at Faustina. Meschini, charge of complicity in tho abominable fraud the librarian, has just died very suddenly in which Montevarchi had prepared before he died. the study whero we were." Not one of the men present even thought of Meschini?” crierl Faustina in surprise and suspecting him. Even if they had, it was clear with some anxiety. that he would not have brought Meschini to “Yes. Are you nervous, Donna Faustina ? confess before then a robbesy in which he had May I tell you something rery startling?” It taken part. But there was that in his brave was a man's question. eyes that told his innocence better than any “ Yes...-what is it?" she asked quickly. evidence or argument could have prolaimed it. "Meschini confessed before us all that it was 110 held out the document to Saracinesca. he who was the cause in fact that he had “Would you like to keep it as a memento ?” murdered your father. Before anyone could maskeri. * Or shall I destroy it before you ?” stop him, he had shot himself. Kis voice never quavered, his face was not dreadful." discomposed. Giovanni, thonoble-hearted gentle With a low.cry met was nioro expressive of man, wondered whether he himself coull have amazoment than of horror, I austina sank into bordo sul a blow so bravely as this innkeeper it chair. In His auxiety to tell his wife the "Must We 66 It is very 66 172 SANT! ILARIO whois truth Giovanni forgot her at onoo: As it i? :Der head sank upon his rhonidor; sSon as he began to speak, however, Corona led though she had found that perfect rest for him away to the window whore they had stood which she had once so longed. together a few hours earlier, *Corona-what I told her is not all. There Hero' ends the second act in the history of is something else. Meschini had forged the the Saracinesca. To trace their story further, papers which gave the property to San Giacinto. would be to enter upon an entirely different! Montevarchi had promised him twenty thousand series of events, less unusual perhaps in them. scudi for the job." It was because he would not solves, but possibly worthy of description as pay the money that Moschini killed him. Do embracing that period during which Rome and you understand? the Romans began to bo transformod "You s. ill have everything after all ?" modernised. In the occurrences that followed, Everything-but we must give San Giacinto both political and social, the Saracinesca bore a share. He has behaved like a hero. He a part, in that blaze of gaiety which for many found it all out and made Meschini confess. reasons developed during the winter of the When he knew the truth he did not move a Ocumenical Council, in the fall of the temporal muscle of his face, but offered my father the power, in the social confusion that succeeded deed he had just signed as a memento of the that long-expected catastrophe, and which led occasion." by rapid degrees to the present state of things. "Then he will not take anything, any If there aro any left who still feel an interest in more than you would, or your father. Is it Giovanni and Corona, the historian may once quite sure, Giovanni? Is there no possible more resume his task and set forth in succossion mistake?" the circumstances through which "chey havo “No. It is absolutely certain. The original passed sinco that nomorable morning they spent documents are in this house." at the Palazzo Montevarchi. They themselves "I am glad then, for you, dear," answered aro facts, and, as such, are a part of the century Corona. "It would have been very hard for in which we live; whether they are interesting you to bearfacts or not is for others to judge, and if tho " After this morning after the other day verdict denounces them as fiat, unprofitable, in Holy Office?" asked Giovanni, looking deep and altogether dull, it is not their fault; the into her splendid eyes. "Can anything be hard blame must be imputed to him who, knowing to bear if you love me, darling?" them well, has failed in an honest attempt Oh, my beloved ! I wanted to hear you say to show them as hey are. THE END. PRINTED BY CHOI LEY AND PICK EKEGILL, THE ELECTRIC PRESS, LEEDS.

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Sant' Ilario