body holds his speeches as mere
jokes."

Tito, who had stood transfixed, with his long dark eyes resting on the
unknown man who had addressed him so equivocally, seemed recalled to his
self-command by Piero's change of position, and apparently satisfied
with his explanation, was again giving his attention to Cennini, who
presently said--

"This is a curious and valuable ring, young man. This intaglio of the
fish with the crested serpent above it, in the black stratum of the
onyx, or rather nicolo, is well shown by the surrounding blue of the
upper stratum. The ring has, doubtless, a history?" added Cennini,
looking up keenly at the young stranger.

"Yes, indeed," said Tito, meeting the scrutiny very frankly. "The ring
was found in Sicily, and I have understood from those who busy
themselves with gems and sigils, that both the stone and intaglio are of
virtue to make the wearer fortunate, especially at sea, and also to
restore to him whatever he may have lost. But," he continued, smiling,
"though I have worn it constantly since I quitted Greece, it has not
made me altogether fortunate at sea, you perceive, unless I am to count
escape from drowning as a sufficient proof of its virtue. It remains to
be seen whether my lost chests will come to light; but to lose no chance
of such a result, Messer, I will pray you only to hold the ring for a
short space as pledge for a small sum far beneath its value, and I will
redeem it as soon as I can dispose of certain other gems which are
secured within my doublet, or indeed as soon as I can earn something by
any scholarly employment, if I may be so fortunate as to meet with
such."

"That may be seen, young man, if you will come with me," said Cennini.
"My brother Pietro, who is a better judge of scholarship than I, will
perhaps be able to supply you with a task that may test your
capabilities. Meanwhile, take back your ring until I can hand you the
necessary florins, and, if it please you, come along with me."

"Yes, yes," said Nello, "go with Messer Domenico, you cannot go in
better company; he was born under the constellation that gives a man
skill, riches, and integrity, whatever that constellation may be, which
is of the less consequence because babies can't choose their own
horoscopes, and, indeed, if they could, there might be an inconvenient
rush of babies at particular epochs. Besides, our Phoenix, the
incomparable Pico, has shown that your horoscopes are all a no