Early the following morning, Rico was awakened from a sound sleep by a
powerful grasp. He sprang quickly out of bed. His companion stood ready
dressed for the journey, with his big stick in his hand.

It was not long, however, before Rico was also ready, with his fiddle
tucked under his arm. They went into the dining-room, and the dealer
called for coffee at once. He recommended the lad to make a good meal
then; for they had a long journey before them, he said, and one that
created an appetite.

When they had breakfasted to their satisfaction, they sallied forth;
and, after a little, came round a sharp corner; and how Rico did open
his big eyes! for there, before him, lay a great shining lake; and much
excited, he shouted out, "Now we are on the Lake of Garda!"

"Not for a long time yet, my boy. This is the Lake of Como."

They went on board a boat, and sailed for several hours after this; and
Rico looked about him,--at the sun-bathed shores, and then at the blue
waters; and he felt at home at last.

Presently he took his piece of silver from his pocket, and put it down
on the table before the dealer.

"What does this mean? Have you too much money by you?" asked the man,
who was looking on in surprise, his arms supported on his big stick.

"I must pay to-day," said Rico. "You said so yesterday."