least, are sure of the credence of half your audience. Come, sit down, and tell us all about this Signor Vampa.”
“I had told your excellency he is the most famous bandit we have had since the days of Mastrilla.”
“Well, what has this bandit to do with the order I have given the coachman to leave the city by the Porta del Popolo, and to reenter by the Porta San Giovanni?”
“This,” replied Signor Pastrini, “that you will go out by one, but I very much doubt your returning by the other.”
“Why?” asked Franz.
“Because, after nightfall, you are not safe fifty yards from the gates.”
“On your honor, is that true?” cried Albert.
“Count,” returned Signor Pastrini, hurt at Albert’s repeated doubts of the truth of his assertions, “I do not say this to you, but to your