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The Unknown had advanced towards the door, but looking back, and

seeing Don Abbondio behind, he suddenly recollected himself, and

bowing with a polite and humble air, waited to let him pass

before. This circumstance re-assured the poor man a little; but

he had scarcely reached the little court, when he saw the Unknown

resume his carbine, and fling it over his shoulder, as if

performing the military exercise.

"Oh! oh! oh!" thought Don Abbondio, "what does he want with this

tool? That is a strange ornament for a converted person! And if

some whim should enter his head! what would become of me! what

would become of me!"

If the Unknown had had the least suspicion of the thoughts that

were passing in the mind of his companion, he would have done his

utmost to inspire him with confidence; but he was far from such

an imagination, as Don Abbondio was very careful not to let his

distrust appear.

They found the mules ready at the door: the Unknown mounted one

which was presented to him by a groom.