“‘When does the twelve months expire?’ I asked.

“‘This very day.’

“‘Then you will sleep there to-night?’

“‘Yes.’

“‘But has she never found out your connection with this band?’ I asked.

“‘No, nor even suspects it. Whenever I go there I always dress well, and have plenty of money, and so behave that no one would suspect me to be what I am.’

“‘And do you really intend to rob Donna Evelina, to-night?’ I asked.

“‘Yes, and you must help me. She has great wealth, and I know where it is kept.’

“‘Well, I don’t mind,’ said I, ‘since you don’t like the woman, and she has plenty of money. You are her husband, and have a right to some of it.’

“It was agreed on then between us to go to Donna Evelina’s that night.