“ ‘Ah, I understand,’ said the lieutenant; ‘and you seek admittance into our ranks?’

“ ‘Welcome!’ cried several bandits from Ferrusino, Pampinara, and Anagni, who had recognized Luigi Vampa.

“ ‘Yes, but I came to ask something more than to be your companion.’

“ ‘And what may that be?’ inquired the bandits with astonishment.

“ ‘I come to ask to be your captain,’ said the young man.

“The bandits shouted with laughter.

“ ‘And what have you done to aspire to this honor?’ demanded the lieutenant.

“ ‘I have killed your chief, Cucumetto, whose dress I now wear; and I set fire to the villa San-Felice to procure a wedding-dress for my betrothed.’