"Very well, Signor Pallanza. I am the Englishman of whom you have no doubt heard her speak."
"Signor Hugo! yes, I know," muttered Guiseppe; and then, after a pause, "I wish to speak to you, I wish to tell you something."
"You shall tell me all shortly, but meanwhile lie down quietly, and when the doctor comes say nothing about the Palazzo Morone."
"Ah!" cried Pallanza, starting up in his bed, "do you know that horrible place?"
"I know all! But there, you are still weak," I answered, forcing him to lie down. "When I return I will speak to you about some important matters."
"Important!--to me?"
"Yes, and to the Contessa Morone."
"Ah! that terrible woman."
"Meanwhile, Signor Pallanza, say nothing about your visit to the palace or about Madame Morone."
"Not a word! And you will bring Bianca to see me?"