"Your horse may break its neck," replied the Marchese. "You too;
intentionally, perhaps."

"Anyhow," said the Abbate indignantly, "the Lieutenant cannot get the
money here by magic."

The two Ricardis laughed; but instantly restrained their mirth.

Olivo once more addressed the Marchese. "It is plain that you must grant
Lieutenant Lorenzi leave to depart."

"Yes, if he gives me a pledge," exclaimed the Marchese with flashing
eyes, as if this idea gave him peculiar delight.

"That seems rather a good plan," said Casanova, a little
absent-mindedly, for his scheme was ripening.

Lorenzi drew a ring from his finger and flicked it across the table.

The Marchese took it up, saying: "That is good for a thousand."

"What about this one?" Lorenzi threw down another ring in front of the
Marchese.

The latter nodded, saying: "That is good for the same amount."

"Are you satisfied now, Signor Marchese?" enquired Lorenzi, moving as if
to go.