She remembered the warning conveyed in Mr.Watson's letter.
"Of course, I know that all the Americans who travel are rich," continued Frascatti.

"I have myself been in Chicago, which is America.
But is Signor Merreek a very rich and well acquainted man in his own country?
Believe me, it is well that you answer truly." "I think he is." The man looked cautiously around, and then came nearer and dropped his voice to a whisper.
"Are you aware that Il Duca knows this ?" he asked.
Beth thought a moment.
"We met the man you call Il Duca, but who told us he was Signor Victor Valdi, on board the ship, where many of the passengers knew my uncle well.

If he listened to their conversation he would soon know all about John Merrick, of course." Frascatti wagged his head solemnly.
"Then, signorina," he said, still speaking very softly, "I assure you there is no need to worry over your uncle's safety." "What do you mean ?" demanded Beth.
"People do not lose their way in our mountains," he replied.

"The paths are straight, and lead all to the highways.

And there is little danger of falling or of being injured.