"Hence, scurvy companion! I know you and your tricks too well.
This is all a concerted scheme between you, a design upon my purse,
an attempt to procure both money and thanks, and under the lame
pretence of having saved me from an assassin. Go, fellow, go!
practise these dainty devices on the Doge's credulity if you will;
but with Buonarotti you stand no chance, believe me."

The wretched starving beggar stood like one petrified, and gazed on
the taunting stranger.

"No, as I have a soul to save, signor, 'tis no lie I tell you!--'tis
the plain truth; have compassion, or I die this night of hunger."

"Begone this instant, I say, or by Heaven--"

The unfeeling man here drew out a concealed pistol, and pointed it
at his preserver.

"Merciful Heaven! and is it thus that services are acknowledged in
Venice?"

"The watch is at no great distance, I need only raise my voice and--
"

"Hell and confusion! do you take me for a robber, then?"

"Make no noise, I tell you. Be quiet--you had better."

"Hark you, signor. Buonarotti is your name, I think? I will write