The remaining three were fellows of rough aspect, and when one of them--a black-browed ruffian--raised his eyes and fastened them upon the riches that Madonna Paola with such indifference displayed, I knew what was to follow.
He rose upon the instant, and stepping forward, he made her a low bow.
"Illustrious lady," said he, "if these two friends of mine and I find favour with you, here is an escort ready found.

We are stout fellows, and very faithful." Faithful to their cut-throat trade, I made no doubt he meant.
His fellows now rose also, and she looked them over, giving herself the airs of having spent her virgin life in judging men by their appearance.
It was in vain I tugged her cloak, in vain I murmured the word "wait" under cover of my hand.

She there and then engaged them, and bade them make ready to set out at once.

One more attempt I made to induce her to alter her resolve.
"Madonna," said I, "it is an unwise thing to go a-journeying by night with three unknown men, and of such villainous appearance.

To me they seem no better than bandits." We were standing apart from the others, and she was sipping a cup of spiced wine that the host had mulled for her.