He went white with fear and he leant against the low wall to steady the tell-tale trembling that had seized him.

Then Francesco's voice, scornful and confident, floated up to his ears.

"I ask you, my friends, would his Highness of Babbiano be disposed to the payment of a thousand gold florins if by bombardment he thought to break a way into Roccaleone?
This letter was written yesterday.

Since then we have made a brave display of cannon ourselves; and if yesterday he dared not fire, think you he will to-day?
But here, assure yourselves, if there is one amongst you that can read." He held out the letter to them.

Cappoccio took it, and calling one Aventano, he held it out in his turn.