While he was polishing these admiringly on his coat-sleeve I watched him earnestly--then I suddenly addressed him.
"Vincenzo!" He started.
"Eccellenza ?" "To-night you will stand behind my chair and assist in serving the wine." "Yes, eccellenza." "You will," I continued, "attend particularly to Sigor Ferrari, who will sit at my right hand.

Take care that his glass is never empty." "Yes, eccellenza." "Whatever may be said or done," I went on, quietly, "you will show no sign of alarm or surprise.

From the commencement of dinner till I tell you to move, remember your place is fixed by me." The honest fellow looked a little puzzled, but replied as before: "Yes, eccellenza." I smiled, and advancing, laid my hand on his arm.
"How about the pistols, Vincenzo ?" "They are cleaned and ready for use, eccellenza," he replied.

"I have placed them in your cabinet." "That is well!" I said with a satisfied gesture.

"You can leave me and arrange the salon for the reception of my friends." He disappeared, and I busied myself with my toilet, about which I was for once unusually particular.