"And what does your Excellency think of your relation?" asked the curate, when he was alone with the Prince.
"A terrible-looking fellow! But—" The Prince made a face and a gesture indicating a question in regard to the innkeeper's character.
"Oh, do not be afraid," answered the priest. "He is the most honest man alive."
"Of course," returned the Prince, politely, "you have had many occasions of ascertaining that."
Giovanni, the innkeeper, returned with a bottle of wine and three glasses, which he placed upon the table, and proceeded to fill.
"By the by," said the Prince, "in the excitement I forgot to inquire for your Signora. She is well, I hope?"
"Thank you—she is very well," replied Giovanni, shortly.
"A boy, I have no doubt?"
"A splendid boy," answered the curate. "Sor Giovanni has a little girl, too. He is a very happy man."
"Your health," said the innkeeper, holding up his glass to the light.