The Consul bowed and then looked at the prisoners. As his eye fell upon the Senator it lighted up, and his face assumed an expression of the most friendly interest. Evidently a recognition. The Austrian Commandant addressed the Consul directly in German.
"Do you know the prisoners?"
"I know one of them."
"He is here under a very heavy accusation. I have well-substantiated charges by which he is implicated in treason and conspiracy. He has been connected with Revolutionists of the worst stamp in Florence, and there is strong proof that he has come here to communicate with Revolutionists in this city."
"Who accuses him of this? Are they here?"
"No, but they have written from Florence warning me of his journey here."
"Does the prisoner confess?"
"Of course not. He denies. He requested me to send for you. I don't want to be unjust, so if you have any thing to say, say on."
"These charges are impossible."
"Impossible?"