"Luigi Vampa's men!" echoed the peasant, in astonishment.
"Yes."
"And they released you of their own accord? I never heard of such a thing! It is not their custom to free their prey, at least without a heavy ransom. Did they rob you, or did you pay them for your liberty?"
"Neither," replied Espérance.
The peasant's amazement was redoubled. He glanced inquiringly at the prostrate Viscount.
"How came your comrade to be wounded?" he asked.
"His arm was shattered by the pistol of a gigantic bandit."
"Ludovico?" demanded the peasant, glancing around him, as if he expected to see the huge assailant.
"I believe that was his name," returned Espérance. "But he will do no more injury!"
"You do not mean to say that you killed him?"