Pagina 605 van 1118

"I have never understood what it is until to-day; it is something

like fear; if it takes possession of one, one is no longer a

man."

"Let me hear, then, what she has done to excite your compassion?"

"Oh, most illustrious signor, she wept, implored, and looked so

piteously; then turned pale, pale as death; then wept, and prayed

again, and said such words--"

"I will not have this girl in the castle," thought the Unknown.

"I was wrong to embark in this business; but I have promised, I

have promised: when she is far away--" And looking imperiously at

Nibbio, "Now," said he, "put an end to your compassion; mount a

horse, take with you two or three companions, if you wish; go to

the castle of Don Roderick, thou knowest it. Tell him to send

immediately, immediately-or otherwise--"