Page 480 of 1118

"We have mouths also, to eat, and to give our reasons," said

another in a voice as timid as the remark was daring, "and since

the thing has begun--" But he did not think to finish his

sentence.

"It is not only in Milan, that they conceal grain," said another,

with a mysterious air-when suddenly they heard approaching the

trampling of a horse. They ran to the door, and recognising the

person who arrived, they went out to receive him. It was a

merchant of Milan, who, going frequently to Bergamo on business,

was accustomed to pass the night at this inn, and as he had

almost always found there the same company, he had formed an

acquaintance with all of them. They crowded around him-one held

the bridle, another the stirrup. "You are welcome."

"And I am glad to find you all here."

"Have you made a good journey?"

"Very good. And you all, how do you do?"

"Well, well. What news from Milan?"