He leaped with hands outstretched, furious, intent to kill. But Edith forced him back. Her hood fell off in the struggle, and her golden hair, gleaming in the scanty light, was tangled in his hands. Perforce he hesitated.
"Hugh, are you mad?" she panted. "Do you not know him?"
"Who?" rasped Hugh.
She nodded behind her.
"Nay, I——"
Ranulphio stepped forward, a broad smile on his bearded face.
"'Twas well played, old comrade," he said. "Ha, to think that I have fooled you! 'Twas more than I expected."
The voice was the voice of Matteo. But still Hugh could not believe.
"Who is he?" he appealed to Edith.
"'Tis Messer Matteo in marvellous disguise. Ay, in sooth, Hugh. Doubt him not."