ttached to his
mansion; and I certainly could not have supposed, from his appearance,
that he was a man capable of so black a crime. I was, however, about to
observe that Florence is at this moment infested by a class of villains
who hesitate at no deed of turpitude. This Signor Wagner is a foreigner,
possessed of immense wealth, the sources of which are totally unknown;
and, moreover, it is declared that the sbirri, yesterday morning,
actually traced the robber-captain Stephano to the vicinity of his
mansion. All this looks black enough, and it is more than probable that
Wagner was in league with the redoubtable Stephano and his banditti.
Then the mysterious disappearance of Flora is, to say the least,
alarming, for I believe she was a well conducted, virtuous, estimable
young woman."

"She was--she was indeed!" exclaimed Francisco. "At least," he added,
perceiving that the physician was somewhat astonished at the enthusiasm
with which he spoke--"at least, such is my firm impression; such, too,
is the opinion of my sister."

"The motive which brought me hither this morning," said Dr. Duras, "was
to offer you a little friendly advice, which my long acquaintance with
your family, my dear count, will prevent you from taking amiss."

"Speak, doctor--speak your thoughts!" cried Francisco, pressing the
physician's hand gratefully.

"I would recommend you to be more cautious how you form an intimacy with
strangers," continued Dr. Duras. "Rumor has a thousand tongues--and it
is already reported in Florence that the alleged murderer was on
familiar terms with the noble Count of Riverola and Lady Nisida."

"The duke himself is liable to be deceived in respect to the real
character of an individual," said Francisco proudly.

"But his highness would not form hasty acquaintances," replied the
physician. "After all, it is with the best possible feeling that I offer
you my counsel--knowing your generous heart, and also how frequently
generosity is imposed upon."

"Pardon the impatience with which I answered you, my dear friend,"
exclaimed the young count.

"No pardon is necessary," said the physician; "because you did not
offend me. One word more and I must take my leave. Crimes are
multiplying thickly in Florence, and Stephano's band becomes each day
more and more daring; so that it is unsafe to walk alone in the city
after dusk. Beware how you stir unattended, my dear Francisco, at
unseasonable hours."

"My habits are n