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"If she lives, I will find her; I will hear herself explain this

promise; I will show her that it is not binding; and I will bring

her here, and poor Agnes also, who has always wished me well, and

I am sure does so still,-yes, I will go in search of them."

As soon as he was able to walk, he went in search of Bortolo, who

had kept himself shut up in his house, on account of the

pestilence. He called to him to come to the window.

"Ah, ah," said Bortolo, "you have recovered. It is well for you."

"I have still some weakness in my limbs, as you see, but I am out

of danger."

"Oh, I wish I was on your legs. Formerly, when one said, I am

well, it expressed all that could be desired; but now-a-days that

is of little consequence. When one can say I am better, that's

the word for you!"

Renzo informed his cousin of his determination.

"Go now, and may Heaven bless you," replied he; "avoid the law as

I shall avoid the pestilence; and if it is the will of God, we

shall see each other again."