to Glyndon,--a seat next to Zanoni was placed for him, and the young
Englishman entered.

"You are most welcome, sir. I trust your business to our illustrious
guest is of good omen and pleasant import. If you bring evil news, defer
it, I pray you."

Glyndon's brow was sullen; and he was about to startle the guests by
his reply, when Zanoni, touching his arm significantly, whispered in
English, "I know why you have sought me. Be silent, and witness what
ensues."

"You know then that Viola, whom you boasted you had the power to save
from danger--"

"Is in this house!--yes. I know also that Murder sits at the right hand
of our host. But his fate is now separated from hers forever; and the
mirror which glasses it to my eye is clear through the streams of blood.
Be still, and learn the fate that awaits the wicked!

"My lord," said Zanoni, speaking aloud, "the Signor Glyndon has indeed
brought me tidings not wholly unexpected. I am compelled to leave
Naples,--an additional motive to make the most of the present hour."

"And what, if I may venture to ask, may be the cause that brings such
affliction on the fair dames of Naples?"

"It is the approaching death of one who honoured me with most loyal
friendship," replied Zanoni, gravely. "Let us not speak of it; grief
cannot put back the dial. As we supply by new flowers those that fade