CHAPTER XVIII
Ripaldi’s diary—its ownership plainly shown by the record of his name in full, Natale Ripaldi, inside the cover—was a commonplace note-book bound in shabby drab cloth, its edges and corners strengthened with some sort of white metal. The pages were of coarse paper, lined blue and red, and they were dog-eared and smirched as though they had been constantly turned over and used.
The earlier entries were little more than a record of work to do or done.
“Jan. 11. To call at Café di Roma, 12.30. Beppo will meet me.
“Jan. 13. Traced M. L. Last employed as a model at S.’s studio, Palazzo B.
“Jan. 15. There is trouble brewing at the Circulo Bonafede; Louvaih, Malatesta, and the Englishman Sprot, have joined it. All are noted Anarchists.
“Jan. 20. Mem., pay Trattore. The Bestia will not wait. X. is also pressing, and Mariuccia. Situation tightens.
“Jan. 23. Ordered to watch Q. Could I work him? No. Strong doubts of his solvency.
“Feb. 10, 11, 12. After Q. No grounds yet.
“Feb. 27. Q. keeps up good appearance. Any mistake? Shall I try him? Sorely pressed. X. threatens me with Prefettura.