et with are not even
worthy of the name; they are more fierce than wolves; have no laws, as
with them armed force constitutes justice, and injury rights. They live
by rapine, but seek it not without peril, and sword in hand. Every other
way of purveying for their necessities they view as base and
ignominious. It is enough for them to be seen to be hated and dreaded.
The sound of their voice is ferocious; their physiognomy horrible, and
their complexion cadaverous." Just such are the inhabitants of Sonnino
and its vicinity at present, and among such Spatolino came to complete
his band, which, when formed in Rome, consisted of seven only.

Before proceeding on his expedition, and to attach his wife more closely
to his person by proving his strong affection, he left his band and
proceeded to Civita Vecchia, and seeking a sailor who had seduced her,
he expressed a wish to speak with him a little distance from the town.
The sailor, conceiving it might be something to his advantage, followed
immediately. Spatolino conducted him a little beyond the gate of Civita
Vecchia, and giving him two thrusts of his stiletto in his heart, cut
off his ears and nose, to carry them as a present to his wife, and then
departed immediately for Sonnino. On his arrival, he proceeded to seek
Mary and his band. After the usual salutations, he took out of his
pocket the small bundle containing the nose and ears of the sailor, and,
presenting them to his wife, said, "From this you may judge my
affection. I was desirous of avenging your wrongs, and have done so by
killing your seducer. Here are the pledges of it, which you should keep,
in order to remind you of the betrayer, and as a guard against future
temptation. You cannot mistrust me, when I promise ever to afford you
proofs of true attachment, and I hope you will be faithful to me!" After
this they embraced affectionately, and swore to each other eternal
fidelity. Nor is it possible for any man to have kept his word more
scrupulously towards his wife. The following day Spatolino departed at
the head of his band, which was composed of eighteen persons, himself
and wife included, and proceeded to the vicinity of Portatta, near the
main road leading from Rome to Naples, which at that time was much
frequented by the French of every rank and condition, who proceeded
under orders between these two places. Towards night, Spatolino placed
himself and comrades in ambush on the high road, intending to tak