"I do not understand," said Giovanni.
The Prince told his story in as few words as possible.
"Amazing! extraordinary! what a chance!" ejaculated the curate, nodding his old head from time to time while the Prince spoke, as though he had not heard it all before. The innkeeper said nothing until old Saracinesca had finished.
"I see how it was managed," he said at last. "When that gentleman was making inquiries, I was away. I had taken my wife back to Salerno, and my wife's father had not yet established himself in Aquila. Signor Del—what is his name?"
"Del Ferice."
"Del Ferice, exactly. He thought we had disappeared, and were not likely to come back. Or else he is a fool."
"He is not a fool," said Saracinesca. "He thought he was safe. It is all very clear now. Well, Signor Marchese, or Signor Saracinesca, I am very glad to have made your acquaintance. You have cleared up a very important question by returning to Aquila. It will always give me the greatest pleasure to serve you in any way I can."
"A thousand thanks. Anything I can do for you during your stay—"
"You are very kind. I will hire horses and return to Terni to-night. My business in Rome is urgent. There is some suspense there in my absence."
"You will drink a glass before going?" asked Giovanni; and without waiting for an answer, he strode from the room.