"Undoubtedly," said the Italian. "But I am a man of honour; and should our interview progress as favourably as I hope, I shall entrust you with secrets which will prove my readiness to look upon you in the same light."
"Proceed," said Richard: "you speak fairly."
"In the first place, am I right in believing that you were once most intimate with a certain Count Alteroni who resides near Richmond?"
"Quite right," answered Richard.
"Do you, or do you not, entertain good feelings towards that nobleman?"
"The best feelings—the most sincere friendship—the most devoted attachment," exclaimed our hero.
"Are you aware of any particulars in his political history?"
"He is a refugee from his native land."
"Does he now bear his true name?"
"If you wish me to place confidence in you," said Richard, "you will yourself answer me one question, before I reply to any farther interrogatory on your part."