intrigue in his natural disposition? In pursuance of this object, he
approached the little terrace before alluded to, and which was a
trifle higher than his head, and situated at this time within the
shadow of the moon. By a slight and almost imperceptible noise, he
essayed to attract the attention of Florinda, and led her to suppose
that he was Carlton, and there awaiting the expected answer
according to appointment, The wily Italian gathered the ample folds
of his rich cloak about his person, so as to partially cover his
face, upon which there was a most demoniac smile, picturing revenge,
hate and every evil passion, to which a heavy moustache lent
additional fierceness.

In one hand he held a keen stiletto, while he extended the other
above his head to receive the letter from the hand of Florinda. It
was necessary for her to reach some distance over the edge of the
small projecting terrace, in order to place it in his hand; this she
did, using the customary precaution, and not venturing to utter a
word as she heard footsteps approaching her room. Petro having thus
possessed himself of the letter, retired to a place from whence he
could watch the movements of Carlton without himself being observed
by the young American.

As the clock of the neighboring church struck eleven, Carlton sprang
to his feet, and assuming his place under the terrace, awaited the
coming of Florinda, little suspecting the trick that had been played
upon him. But after awaiting somewhat impatiently for nearly an
hour, he was compelled to return to his lodgings, almost trembling
with fear lest some serious accident had befallen her he loved, or
at least that their plan might have been discovered, and she
subjected to consequent ill-treatment and fresh rigor by her uncle.