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"I have always done well by you."

"The consequence of your goodness."

"I can trust you, I think. I am ill, Griso."

"I perceived that you were."

"If I am cured, I will do still more for you than I have ever yet

done."

Griso made no answer, waiting to see to what this preamble would

lead.

"I would not trust any one but you," resumed Don Roderick; "do me

a favour."

"Command me."

"Do you know where the surgeon Chiodo lives?"

"I do."

"He is an honest man, who, if he be well paid, keeps secret the

sick. Go to him; tell him I will give him four or six crowns a

visit,-more, if he wishes it. Tell him to come here immediately;

act with prudence; let no one get knowledge of it."

"Well thought of," said Griso; "I will return immediately."

"First, Griso, give me a little water; I burn with thirst."