"A fine night, Don Francis," he said. It was Count Giraldi.




CHAPTER XLIV

I CONFRONT MY ENEMIES


I could not see his face, for besides that it was now very dark, he kept
his cloak up, and had pulled his hat downwards over his brow; but his
voice was perfectly familiar. His companion was similarly muffled; I did
not then recognise him.

I saluted the count and admitted the fineness of the night. It seemed to
me that he had more to say--and he had.

"I have wished a little conversation with you, Don Francis," he said.
"Shall we walk together? You are returning to your lodging--after an
interview which, to judge from its duration, must have been pleasant."

"My dear count," said I, "Donna Aurelia, as you know, is an old friend
of mine. We had much to say. I will walk with you by all means. But your
friend here----"

He laughed. "My friend will not disturb us. Let me make two gentlemen
acquainted, who should know each other, at least, by name. Marchese, let
me present you to my friend Mr. Francis Strelley. Don Francis, be
pleased to salute the illustrious Marchese Semifonte."