"Had you not delayed me with the story, which I might as well have learned on the spot, I should have been there already."
"There is no occasion for impatience, Zeno. I must send to Hickey and find a place for you. I shall tell him you are going to recover your health, as, in fact, you are. And, Zeno, in Heaven's name be discreet. Try to act like a man of sense. Do not dispute with Hickey on matters of religion. Since you are my nephew, you had better not disgrace me."
"I shall become an ardent Catholic, and do you infinite credit, uncle."
"I wish you would, although you would hardly be an acquisition to the Church. And now I must turn you out. It is nearly three o'clock; and I need some sleep. Do you know your way back to your hotel?"
"I need not stir. I can sleep in this chair. Go to bed, and never mind me."
"I shall not close my eyes until you are safely out of the house. Come, rouse yourself and say good-night."
The following is a copy of my first report to the Cardinal:—
"Four Mile Water, County Wicklow,
10th August.
"My Dear Uncle,