then turned them on the path in
reflection. Although Sigismund narrowly watched the workings of his
countenance, giving a little of his attention also, from time to time, to
the movements of Pippo and the pilgrim, he preserved himself a perfectly
calm exterior. Firm in his purpose, accustomed to make extraordinary
exertions in his manly exercises, and conscious of his great physical
force, he was not a man to be easily daunted. It is true that the
companions of Maso conducted themselves in a way to excite no additional
apprehensions on their account; for, on the announcement of the murder,
they moved away from his person a little, as by a natural horror of the
hand that could have done the deed. They now consulted together, and
profiting by their situation behind the back of the Italian, they made
signs to Sigismund of their readiness to assist should it be necessary. He
received the signal writh satisfaction; for, though he knew them to be
knaves, he sufficiently understood the difference between audacious crime
and mere roguery to believe they might, in this instance at least, prove
true.

"Thou wilt return to the convent, Maso," resumed the young soldier, who
would gladly avoid a struggle with a man who had done him and those he
loved so much service, though resolved to discharge what he conceived to
be an imperious duty: "this pilgrim and his friend will be of our party,
in order that, when we quit the mountain, all may leave it blameless and
unsuspected."

"Signor Sigismondo, the proposal is fair; it has a touch of reason, I
allow; but unluckily it does not suit my interests. I am engaged in a
delicate mission, and too much time has been already lost by the way to
waste more without good cause. I have great pity for poor Jacques Colis--"

"Ha! thou knowest the sufferer's name, then; thy unlucky tongue hath
betrayed thee, Maso"

Il Maledetto was again troubled. His features betrayed it, for he frowned
like a man who had committed a grave fault in a matter touching an
important interest. His olive complexion changed, and his interrogator
thought that his eye quailed before his own fixed look. But the emotion
was transient, and shuddering, as if to shake off a weakness, his
appearance became once more natural and composed.

"Thou makest no reply?"

"Signore, you have my answer; affairs press, and my visit to the convent
of San Bernardo has been made. I am bound to Aoste, and should be happy to
do your bidding