He sent in to say that he must speak to his master on business.

Del Ferice came out hastily in considerable agitation, which was by no means diminished by the sight of the well-known shabby black bag.
Temistocle glanced round the hall to see that they were alone.
"The _forza_--the police," he whispered, "are in the house, Eccellenza.
Here is the bag.

Save yourself, for the love of heaven!" Del Ferice turned ghastly pale, and his face twitched nervously.
"But--" he began, and then staggering back leaned against the wall.
"Quick--fly!" urged Temistocle, shaking him roughly by the arm.

"It is the Holy Office--you have time.

I told them you would be back, and they are waiting quietly--they will wait all night.