She thrust back the assailant with a power that surprised him, and in the next moment the blade of a dagger gleamed before his eyes.

"Touch me," said she, drawing herself to the farther end of the carriage, "and I strike!" The mask drew back.
"By the body of Bacchus, a bold spirit!" said he, half laughing and half alarmed.

"Here, Luigi, Giovanni! disarm and seize her.

Harm her not." The mask retired from the door, and another and yet taller form presented itself.

"Be calm, Isabel di Pisani," said he, in a low voice; "with me you are indeed safe!" He lifted his mask as he spoke, and showed the noble features of Zicci.