"It is true," exclaimed Bambino.
"The time has how arrived when I want you to exercise your peculiar talents on my behalf."
"You have but to command, my lord," replied the Italian. "It is for me to obey."
"Good. You have seen Mr. Harkaway?"
"I know him well."
"Again, good," exclaimed Maltravers, whose dark eyes flashed vindictively. "Harkaway is my enemy!"
"He shall die," said Bambino, solemnly.
"Very well. It is for you to see to that. I am in the position you see me now, through that man. He starts for New York on Saturday in the steamer Erin, following a lady I love, whom he intends to steal from me and marry, if I do not stop him. You will embark on the same vessel, and by the time I am well enough to join you in New York, you will have rendered a good account of him."
"His spirit shall have gone to the land of shades. I, Bambino, swear it," said the Italian.
"I rely on you. Is it requisite for me to say anything more?"