"Money affairs are your province,"--said Cethegus, drinking. "I understand them, of course, but they annoy me."
"Further," continued Silverius, "the most influential men in Sicilia, Neapolis, and Apulia must be won over to our cause. Here is the list of their names, with notes annexed. There are men amongst them who are not to be allured by the usual means."
"Give it to me," said Cethegus, "I will manage that," And he cut up a Persian apple.
After an hour's hard work, the most pressing business was settled, and the host replaced the documents, in a secret drawer in the wall behind the crucifix.
The priest was tired, and looked with envy at his companion, whose powerful frame and indefatigable spirit no late hours or exertion seemed able to exhaust.
He expressed something of the sort, as Cethegus again filled the silver cup.
"Practice, friend, strong nerves, and," added Cethegus, smiling, "a good conscience; that is the whole secret."
"Yes, but in earnest, Cethegus, you are a riddle to me in other respects."
"I should hope so."
"Oh ho! do you consider yourself such a superior being that I cannot fathom you?"