; but when I arrived there, I found a decree
of the burgomaster already issued, promising three hundred florins for any
information of Geronimo.[21] I spoke with the bailiff at noon. He told me
that, notwithstanding the most active search, no trace had yet been
discovered of Bufferio's wife, nor of his companions. All of them must
have left the country immediately after the ruffian's death. But this
afternoon the bailiff expects to hear the result of several important
researches ordered by him this morning. If he receives any communication
of consequence he will come himself to impart it to us. I hear the clock
strike five. Signor Turchi will soon be here."

During this explanation Mary remained immovable--her eyes cast down. She
had probably heard only confusedly what had just been said, for her
thoughts were evidently far away.

It was only when the servant threw open the door and announced Signor
Turchi that the young girl, aroused from her reverie, rose hastily and
went eagerly to meet him, as though she expected him to be the bearer of
important news.

Mr. Van de Werve and Deodati also met him at the door; Mary involuntarily
took both his hands in hers, and all three regarded him inquiringly.

"Alas! my friends, I know nothing," said Turchi, in a voice which seemed
but the echo of a bruised and broken heart. "All my efforts have proved
unsuccessful. I have vowed before God to spare no expense or trouble in
order to discover what has become of my unfortunate friend; but so far
impenetrable darkness covers the terrible secret. What shall we do? Let us
hope that the bailiff and his officers may be more fortunate than myself,
who have only my anxiety and affection to guide me."

The words of Simon Turchi effaced the last lingering hope from Mary's
heart, and she seated herself, exhausted from previous emotion.

Turchi drew a chair beside her, regarded her with an expression of
profound compassion, and said:

"My poor Mary, your affliction is intense! I know by my own sorrow how
your loving heart is suffering from this terrible suspense!"

The young girl lifted her eyes to his face, and she saw the tears running
down his cheeks. Then she began to weep bitterly, and sobbing, she said:

"Thanks, thanks, Simon! I will beg Almighty God to recompense your
affection and generosity."

Simon's countenance at this moment presented a singular appearance, from
the remarkable contrast between the pallor of his cheeks and