But do not suppose that I think any the worse of you on that account, Sor Marzio." With this taunt, delivered in a voice that expressed the most profound contempt, Gianbattista went back to his seat and took up his hammer as though nothing had happened.

Don Paolo drew a long breath of relief.

As for Marzio, his teeth chattered with rage.

His weakness had been betrayed at last, and by Gianbattista.

All his life he had succeeded in concealing the physical fear which his words belied.