I can assure you," he went on, as the woman, indignant at thus being questioned by a craftsman who was a stranger to her, tossed her head indignantly, and was about to move on, "that I ask not from any impertinent curiosity.

Here is a ducat as a proof that I am interested in my questions." The woman gave him a quick and searching glance; she took the piece of money, and replied more civilly.

"I am the only attendant on the countess.

I cannot be said to be in her service, since I have been placed there by the commandant of the prison, whither the count will be moved in a few days, but I have been with them since their arrival there, nigh three months since." "Then you are the person whom I seek.

I am he to whom a certain letter which you wot of was sent, and who returned by the messenger as token that he received it two links of this chain." The woman started as he spoke, and looked round anxiously to see that they were not observed; then she said hurriedly: "For goodness sake, sir, if you be he, put aside that grave and earnest look, and chat with me lightly and laughingly, so that if any observe us speaking they will think that you are trying to persuade me that my face has taken your admiration.