But, to save time, I am willing to submit to your official requirements.

I will pay you well for the rescue of my friend." "All shall be done that is possible." "But if you do not find him at once, and return him to us unharmed, I will have a regiment of soldiers in Taormina to search your mountains and break up the bands of brigands that infest them.

When I prove that brigands are here and that you were not aware of them, you will be disgraced and deposed from your office." The official shrugged his shoulders, a gesture in which the Sicilian is as expert as the Frenchman.
"I will welcome the soldiery," said he; "but you will be able to prove nothing.

The offer of a reward may accomplish more--if it is great enough to be interesting." "How great is that ?" "Can I value your friend?
You must name the reward yourself.

But even then I can promise nothing.