Just as the vehicle was starting, a large man, muffled in a huge cloak, from the folds of which protruded the long brown barrel of a rifle, put his head into the window.

The Prince started and grasped his revolver, which lay beside him on the seat.
"Good morning, Prince," said the man.

"I hope you have slept well." "Sor Giovanni!" exclaimed the old gentleman.

"Where did you drop from ?" "The roads are not very safe," returned the innkeeper.

"So I thought it best to accompany you.