Above the doorway I read "Osteria Centrale"; on the bare end of the house was the prouder inscription, "Albergo Nazionale"-- the National Hotel.

I am sorry to say that at the time this touch of humour made no appeal to me; my position was no laughing matter.

Faint with hunger, I saw at once that I should have to browse on fearsome food.

I saw, too, that there was scarce a possibility of passing the night in this place; I must drive down to the sea-shore, and take my chance of a train which would bring me at some time to Reggio.

While I thus reflected--the water rushing over my boots--a very ill-looking man came forth and began to stare curiously at me.