oly apostles were of the
trade; and I would be loth to lose her protection--yet-"

I laughed and tossed him a franc. He pocketed it at once and his eyes
twinkled.

"Though you have not taken half a franc's worth," he admitted, with an
honesty very unusual in a Neapolitan--"but the saints will make it up
to you, never fear!"

"I am sure of that!" I said, gayly. "Addio, my friend! Prosperity to
you and our Lady's favor!"

This salutation, which I knew to be a common one with Sicilian
mariners, the good Pietro responded to with amiable heartiness, wishing
me luck on my next voyage. He then betook himself anew to the polishing
of his glasses--and I passed the rest of the day in strolling about the
least frequented streets of the city, and longing impatiently for the
crimson glory of the sunset, which, like a wide flag of triumph, was to
be the signal of my safe return to love and happiness.

CHAPTER VIII.

It came at last, the blessed, the longed-for evening. A soft breeze
sprung up, cooling the burning air after the heat of the day, and
bringing with it the odors of a thousand flowers. A regal glory of
shifting colors blazed on the breast of heaven--the bay, motionless as
a mirror, reflected all the splendid tints with a sheeny luster that
redoubled their magnificence. Pricked in every vein by the stinging of
my own desires, I yet restrained myself; I waited till the sun sunk
below the glassy waters--till the pomp and glow attending its departure
had paled into those dim, ethereal hues which are like delicate
draperies fallen from the flying forms of angels--till the yellow rim
of the round full moon rose languidly on the edge of the horizon--and
then keeping back my eagerness no longer, I took the well-known road
ascending to the Villa Romani, My heart beat high--my limbs trembled
with excitement--my steps were impatient and precipitate--never had the
way seemed so long. At last I reached the great gate-way--it was locked
fast--its sculptured lions looked upon me frowningly. I heard the
splash and tinkle of the fountains within, the scents of the roses and
myrtle were wafted toward me with every breath I drew. Home at last! I
smiled--my whole frame quivered with expectancy and delight. It was not
my intention to seek admission by the principal entrance--I contented
myself with one long, loving look, and turned to the left, where there
was a small private gate leading into an avenue of ilex and pine,
inters