chief waiter
received him with extreme deference, both accompanying him up the
stairs--the latter throwing wide open the large doors of his room. The
count turned, and, in addressing some indifferent question to the host,
opened his gold-embroidered blue satin vest.

The host turned pale, and shrank back, as if seized with a sudden
fright. Cagliostro passed on, motioning him to follow, which he humbly
obeyed, sinking upon his knees as the door closed.

"Have you recognized the sign which I wear upon my breast?"

"Yes, master," he stammered, bowing down with the greatest reverence.

"Then you belong to the elect of the Inner Temple, for the sign of
knowledge is only made known to them."

"I do, indeed, understand its mysteries, master, and I know that one
of the Invisibles, in infinite condescension, appears in a visible form
before me. Immeasurable as the happiness, is my obedience! Command me,
master; my life and riches belong to the holy alliance!"

"Rise and receive my orders," replied Cagliostro, with great dignity. In
a brief, dictatorial manner he communicated the necessary arrangements;
then dismissed him with a haughty nod, and entered the adjoining room of
his wife, Lorenza Feliciana.

She had thrown herself upon the divan, in charming neglige. Her head was
encircled with black ringlets, which she wore unpowdered, despite the
fashion. Her eyes were closed, and her beautiful shoulders were but half
concealed by a black lace veil.

She slept so quietly and soundly that the count did not awaken her upon
entering. He approached her lightly upon the soft carpet, and stood
regarding her attentively. A pleasant smile spread over his face,
softening its expression, and his eyes beamed with passionate
tenderness.

"She is indeed beautiful," he murmured, softly. "No one could withstand
the charm of this wonderful woman. Ah, would that I could crush these
wicked spirits within me, silence all these seductive, sinful voices,
and fly to some secluded valley of our dear fatherland, and there,
reposing on her love, let life glide calmly on and smile at the past
without regret, as a fading dream! Would that I could forget, and become
again pure and innocent, blest in my affection, simple in my tastes, and
without wants! But no, it is too late! I cannot retreat, the demons
will not be driven out; to them my soul belongs, and I must fulfil my
destiny!--Awake, Lorenza, awake!" Her beautiful form shook with fright;
she