As to the origin of the amulet, she only knew that it had been brought back from Jerusalem by one of her ancestors, who had made a pilgrimage thither in expiation of an involuntary homicide, and from that time it had been, religiously guarded in their family as a precious relic.

She had no doubt of its power, and related many strange things to justify her faith.

She maintained that she owed to the amulet her unexpected return to Italy." "Does she still live ?" asked Mary.
"When in sight of Italy, I put her on board of a boat bound to Porto Fiero; I gave her a small sum of money, and begged the boatman to attend to her comforts.

Poor Teresa Mostajo--that is her name--I doubt not, is living peacefully in her native village, and prays much for me.

This is the only reason why I attribute any virtue to the amulet; I believe in the protection of this sign because it has been sanctified by an act of Christian charity, and by the grateful prayers of the poor blind woman tormented by the pagans for the name of Christ." The old cavalier remained a moment silent, absorbed in thought.