"Why and how is it noble?"
"Because you run great risks with unexampled imprudence."
"What risks, monsignor? did you not promise me before God that you would protect me from all danger?"
"So far as that vile monk is concerned, I promise you on my life. But have you no suspicion of other people?"
"Yes, I have," said Mila, after a moment's reflection. "You mentioned at the fountain a name that frightened me terribly. You spoke as if you had some relations with the Piccinino. But you said to me again after that: 'Come without fear,' and I came. Not without fear, I admit, so long as I was alone on the road. I fancy that I shall be afraid again when I go away from here; but, as long as I am with you, I am not afraid of anything; I feel very brave, and it seems to me that, if we were attacked, I could help in defending ourselves."
"Even against the Piccinino?"
"Ah! I don't know about that. But, great heaven! is he likely to come here?"
"If he should come, it would be to punish the monk and protect you. Why in heaven's name are you so terribly afraid of him?"
"Really, I don't know; but among us, when a girl goes out into the country alone, people make sport of her and say: 'Look out for the Piccinino!'"
"So you think that he murders young maids, do you?"