xpression and vigor, and as he repeated the refrain _Mia bella
Italia!_ for the last time, his compatriots were so carried away by their
enthusiasm that, forgetful of decorum, all, even the most aged, waved
their caps, exclaiming:

"_Italia! Italia!_"

Tears stood in the eyes of many.

Geronimo was complimented by all present. His uncle called him his beloved
son, Mary spoke to him in the most flattering manner, and Mr. Van de Werve
shook hands with him cordially.

As to Simon Turchi, he was overpowered; all he had just seen and heard was
such a martyrdom; jealousy so gnawed his heart that he sank deeper and
deeper into the abyss of hatred and vengeance. He stood a few steps from
Geronimo, his eyes downcast, and trembling with emotion.

No one noticed him. Had he attracted attention, his friends would have
supposed that, like the other Italians, he had been moved by the chant of
his compatriot.

Turchi soon roused himself. Like a man who has taken a sudden resolution,
he walked up to Geronimo, smiled pleasantly, and threw his arms around his
neck.

"Thanks, thanks, Geronimo!" he exclaimed. "You have made me truly happy by
giving me additional cause to be proud of my country."

While embracing him, he also whispered:

"Geronimo, I wish to speak privately to you this evening. I will go to the
garden presently; try to follow me; you will be pleased."

Having said these words, he fell back as if to make way for Mr. Fugger,
the rich banker, who wished to offer his congratulations.

The servants reappeared in the hall with wines and various delicacies.

Master Christian was tuning his violin. The guests, informed that this
excellent artist was about to entertain them with his wonderful skill,
drew near the piano.

Geronimo, perplexed by the words of Simon Turchi, watched his friend and
sought an opportunity to speak to him alone. He saw him leave the room,
and as the entrance of the servants with refreshments, and the desire of
the guests to approach Master Christian, had caused a stir among the
company, the young man was enabled to rejoin Simon in the garden.

The garden, situated in the rear of the house, although not large, was
crossed by several winding paths, and along the wall were wide-spreading
trees and blocks of verdure.

When Geronimo entered the garden, he perceived several persons who had
left the heated apartment to enjoy the fresh air, and who were walking in
different directions.

As he was