"And the delinquent," asked I, with my hand on the doorhandle, "where is he?"
"Locked up, to be sure; ready to be taken to-morrow to Gennazzano, there to await his trial."
"Could I exchange a word with him?"
"If you wish. I shall have to give you a line to the guard, in order to admit you. Just one moment,—here—with this pass they will let you enter."
"Thank you very much. Till we meet again—Addio."
It was now growing towards evening as I hastened my steps towards the lock-up house, where I delivered the arch-priest's note to the guard, who immediately gave orders to the turnkey to admit me. On entering the cell I found Antonio, as I had expected, pacing up and down dejectedly.
"Well, Antonio," said I, "I have come to have a chat with you and to hear all about the miracle that happened this morning."
"Ah! Signor, is it you?" cried he. "Now, was there ever an unluckier mortal on earth than I?"
"Nonsense," said I, "about being unlucky. I have come to comfort you in your trouble and to hear all about the miracle."
"Miracle! The devil a miracle," exclaimed Antonio. "They've miracled me within four walls, who am innocent as the babe unborn, whilst they have let go two of the greatest rascals in the village. It will be a miracle if I escape incarceration for life when I take my trial at Gennazzano."