He was a quick-witted fellow, as has been seen, much more anxious for his own interests than for his master's, though he had hitherto found it easy to consult both.
Indeed, in a certain way he was faithful to Del Ferice, and admired him as a soldier admires his general.

The resolution he now formed did honour to his loyalty to Ugo and to his thievish instincts.

He determined to save his master if he could, and to rob him at his leisure afterwards.
If Del Ferice failed to escape, he would probably reward Temistocle for having done his best to help him; if, on the other hand, he got away, Temistocle had the key of his lodgings, and would help himself.

But there was one difficulty in the way.

Del Ferice was in evening dress at the house of Donna Tullia.