"Have no anxiety about my journey; the rising sun will not find me at
Antwerp."
"Are you certain?"
"As certain as I am that a halter hangs over my head, and over yours something quite as disagreeable."
This jest of his servant made Turchi convulsively contract his lips, but he restrained any expression of feeling, and arose, saying:
"Julio, would you like a glass of good Malmsey?"
"Ah, signor," replied the servant, "I was just thinking that a cup of Malmsey would relieve my parched throat, when, lo! my desire finds an echo in your heart."
"One single glass—a parting bumper."
"One or many, signor, as you wish—either will be welcome; but the excellent wine locked in the cupboard of your room will be particularly acceptable."
"Well, Julio, come with me, and we will drink to the happy termination of your journey."
He arose, traversed a passage, and ascended to the upper story. The servant followed him staggering, and trying to steady himself by the wall.