"Nino mio," I began, "I saw the contessina last night.

She is in a very dramatic and desperate situation.

But she greets you, and looks to you to save her from her troubles." Nino's face was calm, but his voice trembled a little as he answered: "Tell me quickly, please, what the troubles are." "Softly--I will tell you all about it.

You must know that your friend Benoni is a traitor to you, and is here.

Do not look astonished.