ANTONIO'S EXPIATION.
The next morning Antonio asked admittance to the cabinet of his new employer.
"Your highness," said he, "I have seen the marchioness."
"What greeting does she send, good Antonio?"
"My lord, she awaits Filippo at eight o'clock this evening."
"She awaits me!" echoed Eugene. "And you are to conduct me to her?"
"Yes, my lord. I am acquainted with the secret passages of the palace. I will show you the way, and, as God in heaven hears me, I will bring you safely back."
"How solemnly you speak, Antonio!"
"Ah, excellenza, it is easier to enter that palace than to leave it! But you shall leave it in safety, as I hope to be saved from perdition!"
"At what hour did you say?"