CHAPTER IX.

We are at Norwood in the sage's drawing-room. Violante has long since
retired to rest. Harley, who had accompanied the father and daughter to
their home, is still conversing with the former.

"Indeed, my dear Duke," said Harley

"Hush, hush! Diavolo, don't call me Duke yet; I am at home here once
more as Dr. Riccabocca."

"My dear doctor, then, allow me to assure you that you overrate my claim
to your thanks. Your old friends, Leonard and Frank Hazeldean, must come
in for their share. Nor is the faithful Giacomo to be forgotten."

"Continue your explanation."

"In the first place, I learned, through Frank, that one Baron Levy, a
certain fashionable money-lender, and general ministrant to the affairs
of fine gentlemen, was just about to purchase a yacht from Lord
Spendquick on behalf of the count. A short interview with Spendquick
enabled me to outbid the usurer, and conclude a bargain by which the
yacht became mine,--a promise to assist Spendquick in extricating himself
from the claws of the money-lender (which I trust to do by reconciling
him with his father, who is a man of liberality and sense) made
Spendquick readily connive at my scheme for outwitting the enemy. He
allowed Levy to suppose that the count might take possession of the
vessel; but affecting an engagement, and standing out for terms,