His slight vitality sank instantly under the disappointment, he refused to eat, he could not sleep, and he was in a really dangerous state before ten days had passed.

Then he had sent for Taquisara, who visited him daily for nearly a week, encouraging him in every way, until to-day, when the news of the refusal was no more to be denied.

It was characteristic of the Sicilian that he at once attempted to interfere with destiny in favour of his friend.

He was not a man to lose time when time was precious.

His ardent temper loved difficulties, even when they were not his own.