The latter nodded, for he too had been listening.

Presently the landlord returned with the two flagons of hot beer, which were set down on the table before them.

The room was lighted only by a torch stuck in a cresset on the wall, and Hector had purposely seated himself as far from this as possible.

Paolo took up his mug, raised it to his lips, and then set it down again with a sudden cry.
"I am afraid that you will not be able to take it," Hector said aloud.
"What is the matter with your comrade ?" the landlord asked.
"He has a terrible abscess in his jaw, and is unable to speak or to swallow." The landlord took the torch from its place and walked over and looked at Paolo's cheek.

"There is no mistake about that," he said.