Pagina 407 van 1118

"I am the one for your service, worthy youth," said one, who had

listened to the sermon very attentively, but had not yet opened

his mouth; "I know an inn, that will suit you exactly; I will

recommend you to the keeper, who is my friend, and moreover a

very honest man."

"Near by?"

"Not very far off."

The assembly dissolved; and Renzo, after many shakes of the hand,

from persons unknown, followed his guide, adding many thanks for

his courtesy.

"It is nothing, it is nothing," said he; "one hand washes the

other, and both the face. We ought to oblige our neighbour." As

they walked along, he put many questions to Renzo, by way of

discourse.

"It is not from curiosity, nor to meddle with your affairs, but

you appear to be fatigued. From what country do you come?"

"All the way from Lecco, all the way from Lecco."

"All the way from Lecco! Are you from Lecco?"

"From Lecco; that is to say, from the province."