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"Most illustrious signor, I am ready to sacrifice my life for my

master, and it is my duty to do so; but you, you would not desire

me to place it in peril?"

"Well?"

"Your illustrious lordship knows well these few murders that are

laid to my account, and--Here I am under the protection of your

lordship, and in Milan the livery of your lordship is known, but

in Monza I am known. And, your lordship knows, I do not say it

boastingly, he who should deliver me up to justice would be well

rewarded, a hundred good crowns, and permission to liberate two

banditti."

"What, the devil!" said Don Roderick, "you are like a vile cur,

who has scarce courage to rush at the legs of such as pass by the

door; and, not daring to leave the house, keeps himself within

the protection of his master."

"I think I have given proof, signor," said Griso.

"Well?"

"Well," resumed Griso, boldly, thus put on his mettle, "your

lordship must forget my hesitation; heart of a lion, legs of a

hare, I am ready to go."