The third week of September was drawing to its close when I returned to Naples.

The weather had grown cooler, and favorable reports of the gradual decrease of the cholera began to gain ground with the suffering and terrified population.

Business was resumed as usual, pleasure had again her votaries, and society whirled round once more in its giddy waltz as though it had never left off dancing.

I arrived in the city somewhat early in the day, and had time to make some preliminary arrangements for my plan of action.

I secured the most splendid suite of apartments in the best hotel, impressing the whole establishment with a vast idea of my wealth and importance.