.

THE IRON GIRDLE.
From the distance, drawing rapidly nearer and ringing sharply in the stillness of the night, came the clatter of a mule's hooves.
But, though heard, it was scarcely heard consciously, and it certainly went unheeded until it was beneath the window and ceasing at the door.
Giuliana's fingers locked themselves upon my arm in a grip of fear.
"Who comes ?" she asked, below her breath, fearfully.

I sprang from the bed and crouched, listening, by the window, and so lost precious time.
Out of the darkness Giuliana's voice spoke again, hoarsely now and trembling.
"It will be Astorre," she said, with conviction.

"At this hour it can be none else.

I suspected when I saw him talking to that boy at the gate this afternoon that he was setting a spy upon me, to warn him wherever he was lurking, did the need arise." "But how should the boy know... ?" I began, when she interrupted me almost impatiently.
"The boy saw Messer Gambara ride up.