limpse of his
retreating figure, and then I left the window satisfied with my day's
work. Vengeance had begun.

CHAPTER XIII.

Quite early in the next day Ferrari called to see me. I was at
breakfast--he apologized for disturbing me at the meal.

"But," he explained, frankly, "the Countess Romani laid such urgent
commands upon me that I was compelled to obey. We men are the slaves of
women!"

"Not always," I said, dryly, as I motioned him to take a seat--"there
are exceptions--myself for instance. Will you have some coffee?"

"Thanks, I have already breakfasted. Pray do not let me be in your way,
my errand is soon done. The countess wishes me to say--"

"You saw her last night?" I interrupted him.

He flushed slightly. "Yes--that is--for a few minutes only. I gave her
your message. She thanks you, and desires me to tell you that she
cannot think of receiving the jewels unless you will first honor her by
a visit. She is not at home to ordinary callers in consequence of her
recent bereavement--but to you, so old a friend of her husband's
family, a hearty welcome will be accorded."

I bowed stiffly. "I am extremely flattered!" I said, in a somewhat
sarcastical tone, "it is seldom I receive so tempting an invitation! I
regret that I cannot accept it--at least, not at present. Make my
compliments to the lady, and tell her so in whatever sugared form of
words you may think best fitted to please her ears."

He looked surprised and puzzled.

"Do you really mean," he said, with a tinge of hauteur in his accents,
"that you will not visit her--that you refuse her request?"

I smiled. "I really mean, my dear Signor Ferrari, that, being always
accustomed to have my own way, I can make no exception in favor of
ladies, however fascinating they may be. I have business in Naples--it
claims my first and best attention. When it is transacted I may
possibly try a few frivolities for a change--at present I am unfit for
the society of the fair sex--an old battered traveler as you see,
brusque, and unaccustomed to polite lying. But I promise you I will
practice suave manners and a court bow for the countess when I can
spare time to call upon her. In the meanwhile I trust to you to make
her a suitable and graceful apology for my non-appearance."

Ferrari's puzzled and vexed expression gave way to a smile--finally he
laughed aloud. "Upon my word!" he exclaimed, gayly, "you are really a
remarkable man, conte! You are extre