But Cyriax struck his wife so rudely on the hand that she jerked furiously at the chain and, with a muttered oath, blew on the bruised spot.

Meanwhile Gundel was telling the group how many distinguished gentlemen had formerly paid court to Kuni.

She was as agile as a squirrel.

Her pretty little face, with its sparkling blue eyes, attracted the men as bacon draws mice.

Then, pleased to have listeners, she related how the girl had lured florins and zecchins from the purse of many a wealthy ecclesiastic.