into the crowd eagerly.

Suddenly he arose, and, waving his sceptre, commanded silence. John
bowed and turned to the King, waiting to hear his pleasure. But
instead of the speech which every one expected, they saw the King
gazing down into the crowd before him, and on his lips was a malicious
smile. But he looked very old and sick, and he tottered as he held to
the arm of his throne.




XXVI

THE TALISMAN

John turned his head to see at what the King was staring. There was a
movement in the crowd. Men were being elbowed forward. A noise of
harsh voices arose, and to the platform crowded three figures in rags
and tatters.

They forced their way directly in front of the platform, and stood
staring up. John stepped forward to see what it meant, and in a moment
fell back with a cry of dismay. He was looking into the eyes of Cecco,
Tonio and the Giant!

"Hi! Master Gigi!" cried Tonio's hateful voice; "so here we find you
setting up as a tumbler on your own account. Your Majesty," he cried,
appealing to the King, who was listening with a wicked grin on his
face, "this is our boy. We own him. He ran away, but he belongs to