They made him get out, walk along the banks of the river, and then brought him to Teresa and Luigi, who were waiting for him in the catacombs of St. Sebastian.”
“Well,” said the count, turning towards Franz, “it seems to me that this is a very likely story. What do you say to it?”
“Why, that I should think it very amusing,” replied Franz, “if it had happened to anyone but poor Albert.”
“And, in truth, if you had not found me here,” said the count, “it might have proved a gallant adventure which would have cost your friend dear; but now, be assured, his alarm will be the only serious consequence.”
“And shall we go and find him?” inquired Franz.
“Oh, decidedly, sir. He is in a very picturesque place—do you know the catacombs of St. Sebastian?”
“I was never in them; but I have often resolved to visit them.”
“Well, here is an opportunity made to your hand, and it would be difficult to contrive a better. Have you a carriage?”
“No.”
“That is of no consequence; I always have one ready, day and night.”
“Always ready?”
“Yes. I am a very capricious being, and I should tell you that sometimes when I rise, or after my dinner, or in the middle of the night, I resolve on starting for some particular point, and away I go.”
The count rang, and a footman appeared.