cross which I looked upon cliffs descending
sheer for many scores of feet from the heathery slope to the boulders
below. At the pace we held it was a sight to make me shiver. But the
good little horse knew his road, and I let him take it. Up and up we
mounted, his pace dropping at length to a slow canter, and so at an angle
of the gorge came suddenly into full view of a grassy plateau with a house
perched upon it--a house so high and narrow that at first glance I took it
for a tower, with the more excuse because at first glance I could discern
no windows.

As we approached it, however, I saw it to be a dwelling-house, and that it
had windows, though these were shuttered, and the shutters painted a light
stone colour; and I had scarcely made this discovery when one of them
jetted out a sudden puff of smoke and a bullet sang over my head.

The roan, which had fallen to a walk--so steep was the pitch of ground
immediately beneath the house--halted at once as if puzzled; and you may
guess if his dismay exceeded mine. But I reasoned from his behaviour on
the road that this must be his home, and the folks behind the window
shutters must recognise him. So standing high in my stirrups I waved a
hand and pointed at him, at the same time shouting "Amico! Amico!"

There was no answer. The windows still stared down upon us blankly, but
to my relief the shot was not repeated. "Amico! Amico!" I shouted again,
and, alighting, led the horse towards the door.

It was opened cautiously and held a little ajar--just wide enough to give
me a glimpse of a black-bearded face.

"Who are you?" a voice demanded in harsh Corsican.

"A friend," I answered, "and unarmed: and see, I have brought you back
your horse!"

The man called to someone within the house: then addressed me again.
"Yes, it is indeed Nello. But how come you by him?"

"That is a long story," said I. "Be so good as either to step out or to
open and admit me to your hospitality, that we may talk in comfort."

"To the house, O stranger, I have not the slightest intention of admitting
you, seeing that the windows are stuffed with mattresses, and there is no
light within--no, not so much as would show your face. And even less
intention have I of stepping outside, since, without calling you a liar, I
greatly suspect you are here to lead me into ambush."

"Oho!" said I, as a light broke on me. "Is this _vendetta?_"

"It is _vendetta_, and has been _vendetta_ any