taking it for granted that no one who had good blood in his veins
could ever behave outrageously. Of all the three, Sant' Ilario was
the most silent and thoughtful, for he feared certain consequences
from the arrival of this new relation which did not present
themselves to the minds of the others, and was resolved to be
cautious accordingly, even while appearing to receive San Giacinto
with all due cordiality. Later in the day he was alone with his
father for a few minutes.

"Do you like this fellow?" he asked, abruptly.

"No," answered the prince.

"Neither do I, though I have not seen him."

"We shall see," was the old gentleman's answer.

The evening came, and at the appointed hour San Giacinto was
announced. Both Corona and her husband were surprised at his
imposing appearance, as well as at the dignity and self-possession
he displayed. His southern accent was not more noticeable than
that of many Neapolitan gentlemen, and his conversation, if
neither very brilliant nor very fluent, was not devoid of
interest. He talked of the agricultural condition of the new
Italy, and old Saracinesca and his son were both interested in the
subject. They noticed, too, that during dinner no word escaped him
which could give any clue to his former occupation or position,
though afterwards, when the servants were not present, he alluded
more than once with a frank smile to his experiences as an
innkeeper. On the whole, he seemed modest and reserved, yet