On his offence--its apology--the indecent haste of his trial and execution, and the irregularity of the whole proceedings, it is now unnecessary to dwell; they have all passed into history, and are familiarly known to the world.

That very morning had he been seized and sent on board the Foudroyant; in the cabin of that vessel had a court of his own countrymen convened; and there had he been hastily condemned to death.
The hour of doom was near, and he was already in the ship where the execution was to take place.
The messenger of Carlo Giuntotardi found this unfortunate man with his confessor, by whom he had just been shrived.

He heard the request with cold indifference, but granted it on the instant, under the impression that it came from some dependent of his family or estates, who had a last favor to ask, or an act of justice to see performed.
"Remain here, father, I beseech you." said the prisoner, perceiving that the priest was about to retire; "it is some contadino, or some tradesman, whose claims have been overlooked.

I am happy that he has come: one would wish to stand acquitted of injustice before he dies.

Let them come in, my friend." A sign was given with these words, the door of the cabin was opened, and Ghita, with her uncle, entered.