Joseph Ribas answered Stephano’s reverential bow with a haughty nod. “Go,” said he, “take off the seals in the quickest possible time, and then away with you!”
But as Stephano was about retiring with his people, Joseph Ribas beckoned him back again.
“You have, therefore, recognized this deed of gift?” asked he, and as Stephano assented, he continued: “You therefore cannot deny that my master is the undisputed possessor of this villa, and can do with it according to his pleasure?”
“I do not deny it at all!” growled Stephano.
Joseph Ribas then drew forth another paper, which he also handed Stephano. “You will also recognize this deed of gift to be regular and legal! It is likewise undersigned and authenticated by our ambassador.”
Stephano, having attentively read it, almost indignantly said:
“It is all right. But the count is crazy, to give away so fine a property!”
And still grumbling, he departed with his people.
Clinging to Marianne’s side, Natalie had observed the whole proceeding with silent wonder; and, with the astonishment of innocence and inexperience, she comprehended nothing of the whole scene, nor was a suspicion awakened in her childishly pure soul.
“He is, then, really going?” she asked, as Stephano was slowly moving off.