Bold, untiring, discreet, and loyal, if there were anything to be done in Gianluca's case, he was the man to do it.
Bosio Macomer was somewhat surprised that morning, when his old servant informed him that Taquisara was at the door.

He knew him but slightly in the way of acquaintance, though very well by name and reputation, and he wondered what had brought him at that hour.

He was inclined to say that he could not receive him, offering as an excuse that he was ill, which was almost true.

But he reflected that such a man must have a good reason for wishing to see him.

He remembered, too, that the Duca had spoken of him as Gianluca's friend, and in the terrible position in which Bosio himself was placed, it seemed to him possible that one of Gianluca's friends might help him,--how, he had not the power of concentrating his mind enough to guess,--and he ordered the servant to admit him.
Bosio had not slept that night.