"One word--" "It seems to me," interrupted a big man who had not yet spoken, and whose beard was as black as his mask, "that we could make use of just such a man as this, and of more like him if they are to be found." "You are right," said Venier.

"If he will take the oath, and bear the tests, let him be one of us.

My friend," he said to Zorzi, "you see how it is.

You have proved yourself a brave man, and if you are willing to join our company we shall be glad to receive you among us.

Do you agree ?" "I must know what the purpose of your society is," answered Zorzi as calmly as before.
"That is well said, my friend, and I like you the better for it.