They always make a fuss at the last and say it is too dangerous, and you may be caught.

That is the way of them.

You will be quite ready with a ladder of ropes, like one of Boccaccio's men, and a roll of banknotes for the journey, and smelling-salts, and a cushion for the puppy dog, and a separate conveyance for the maid, just according to the directions she has given you; then, at the very last, she will perhaps say that she is afraid of hurting her father's feelings by leaving him without any warning.

Be careful, Nino!" "As for that," he answered, sullenly enough, "if she will not, she will not; and I would not attempt to persuade her against her inclination.

But unless you have very much exaggerated what you saw in her face, she will be ready at five minutes' notice.