[The Amulet by Hendrik Conscience]@TWC D-Link bookThe Amulet CHAPTER X 16/26
Fortunately the visit will not be made before noon to-morrow.
As your negligence has had no evil consequences, I fully pardon you, upon condition that you leave the city before sunrise, and that you travel without stopping until you reach the Rhine." "Never fear this time, signor," replied Julio.
"I will pass the night here, and at early dawn I will be beyond the city gate.
In the first village I will buy a horse, and I will make such speed that he who would catch me must needs have wings." He yawned, stretching his arms above his head, and said: "I am overpowered by fatigue and sleep.
If you have no other directions to give, permit me, signor, to go to bed, that I may be ready for the morning." "Then I may rely upon you, Julio ?" "Have no anxiety about my journey; the rising sun will not find me at Antwerp." "Are you certain ?" "As certain as I am that a halter hangs over my head, and over yours something quite as disagreeable." This jest of his servant made Turchi convulsively contract his lips, but he restrained any expression of feeling, and arose, saying: "Julio, would you like a glass of good Malmsey ?" "Ah, signor," replied the servant, "I was just thinking that a cup of Malmsey would relieve my parched throat, when, lo! my desire finds an echo in your heart." "One single glass--a parting bumper." "One or many, signor, as you wish--either will be welcome; but the excellent wine locked in the cupboard of your room will be particularly acceptable." "Well, Julio, come with me, and we will drink to the happy termination of your journey." He arose, traversed a passage, and ascended to the upper story.
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