"Repeat not those words" said Petro, angrily.

"I repeat them, and am ready to abide by them," said Carlton.

"Cospetto!" exclaimed Petro, in a rage.

"Ay, talk on," said Carlton; "so valiant a knight need have plenty
of words at command."

"Hold, for the love of the virgin, hold both of ye!" said Signor
Latrezzi, foreseeing the catastrophe that must ensue, yet still
remaining with his face hid in his outspread hands.

"By our holy church," said Petro, "must I be met at every turn by
this braggart of an American, who thwarts my dearest wishes, and
foils me at every point? I tell thee I will have thy heart's blood!"
he continued, rushing wildly towards Carlton.

The pistol was raised on a level with the head of the revengeful
Italian, as he advanced furiously, with his stiletto reflecting the
glance of the lamps. Carlton cried to him:

"Have a care, Signor Petro. Thy blood be on thine own head. Stand
back, I say."

"By heaven, I will not longer bear this!"

"I have warned thee!"

But the enraged Petro heeded not the warning of Carlton, upon whom