第1030页 / 共1118页

"My dear father! alas! no, she is not my wife. Do you know

nothing, then, of what has happened?"

"No, my son. Since God removed me from you, I have heard nothing.

But now that he sends you to me, I wish much to know. And your

banishment?"

"You know, then, what they did to me?"

"But you, what did you do?"

"My father, if I were to say I was prudent on that day at Milan,

I should tell a falsehood; but I committed no bad action

wilfully."

"I believe you; I have always thought so."

"Now then I will tell you all."

"Wait a moment."

He approached a cabin, and called "Father Victor."

In a few moments a young capuchin appeared. "Do me the favour,

Father Victor," said he, "to take my place in watching over our

poor patients for a little while. If, however, any should

particularly ask for me, be so good as to call me."

The young friar complied, and Father Christopher, turning to

Renzo, "Let us enter here," said he. "But," added he, "you appear

much exhausted, you have need of food."