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He then asked where was the betrothed; and learning from Agnes

(Lucy stood silent with downcast eyes) the fact of his flight, he

expressed astonishment and displeasure, and asked the reason of

it. Agnes told what she knew of the story of Renzo.

"I have heard of him before," said the cardinal; "but how could a

man, who was engaged in affairs of this nature, be in treaty of

marriage with this young girl?"

"He was a worthy young man," said Lucy, blushing, but in a firm

voice.

"He was a peaceable youth, too peaceable, perhaps," added Agnes;

"your lordship may ask any one if he was not, even the curate.

Who knows what intrigues and plots may have been going on at

Milan? There needs little to make poor people pass for rogues."