In my expectancy of his assault there was no mistake.

I comprehended Antonio very well, and I knew that he feared I might seek to do him an injury, particularly after my inspired speech and gesture upon the terrace.

Also, I felt that he would, if possible, anticipate my attempt and strike first.

I was willing; for I thought myself in possession of his vulnerable point--never dreaming that he might know my own! At last when he, with the coffee and cigarettes, took the knife in his hand, he placed a veil over the point.

He began, laughingly, with the picture of a pickpocket he had helped to catch in London.