At these words, Zambo gave a terrible imprecation, and leapt towards the child with the words—
“That is the last word you shall ever speak!”
And, brandishing a long dagger, he threw himself on Milona. At that critical moment the Baroness Sophia gave a shrill, whistling sound, which drew the attention of the whole band, and speaking in their own tongue, she said—
“That is quite enough. I intend to send for the police. You, old man, would you like to sell the girl?”
“Yes, your ladyship.”
“How much?”
“Twenty golden ducats.”
“You thief!”
“I cannot take less, your Excellency!”
A purse fell into the courtyard at the patriarch’s feet. He picked it up with the rapidity of a juggler, counted the money, and, after bowing to the Baroness, said to Milona—