"Who knocked?"
The man in the cloak started back. The unexpected question so close to his ear made him tremble violently. However, he soon controlled himself and replied in Italian:
"Woman, I do not understand the Flemish tongue. You must know Italian, as
Bufferio is a Roman. Tell me if Bufferio is at home."
"Who are you?" she replied, in Italian jargon.
"Who am I? I come to arrange a secret affair with Bufferio, and I do not choose to tell my name."
"You are an agent of the bailiff, and you wish to deceive me. Go on your way and leave me in peace. Bufferio is not at home."
The man took some pieces of silver from his pocket and rattled them together.
"You are mistaken, woman. I have need of the services of Bufferio for an important affair. He may gain a few crowns of gold. I come with the cash in hand: you understand."
Two bolts grated in their rusty staples, and the door opened.
"Enter, signor," said the woman, "and follow me."