IN such a tale as we now tell you, gentle reader, and when written
within such limits, it is impossible to keep each portion of the
plot equally advanced, or rather not to anticipate certain results.
There is also an advantage in this mode of arrangement which perhaps
is in itself sufficient excuse for the author. It heightens the
plot, and renders it more absorbing to the reader, by suddenly
laying before him some startling tableau and seeming inconsistency,
but which the sequel of the story renders plain and reconcilable
with other portions of the story.

Having said thus much for the scene we have presented to the reader
at the roadside inn on the Apennines, we must now go back with him
to the night on which Carlton delivered his letter of arrangement to
Florinda, and thus render our tale plain to the comprehension of
all.

Carlton, as we have said perfected his plan for the proposed
elopement, and in another letter to Florinda he communicated the
particulars, delivering the missive with his own hands as
heretofore. There was a certain hour agreed upon between them, in
which Signora Florinda was to be at the balcony of her apartment
every evening; and thus, although Carlton might not be able to hold
much conversation with her, yet he could deliver any written paper
he might desire, without the fear of interruption or detection.

It was necessary to accomplish all with the utmost secrecy in order
to ensure success. Now Petro had been led to suspect by some
circumstances, that the meetings between Carlton and his cousin had
been renewed. He determined to ascertain if this was the case