And so often that I have now remaining but one portion of that substance which all the science of Padua cannot renew.

One portion, only, alas!" he repeated with regret.
"Enough to cure one person ?" the Syndic exclaimed.
"Yes." "And the disease ?" Blondel rose as he spoke.

"The disease ?" he repeated.
He extended his trembling arms to the other.

No longer, even if he wished it, could Basterga feign himself blind to the agitation which shook, which almost convulsed, the Syndic's meagre frame.

"The disease?
Is it not that which men call the Scholar's?
Is it not that?
But I know it is." Basterga with something of astonishment in his face inclined his head.
"And I have that disease! I!" the Syndic cried, standing before him a piteous figure.