"Of my evil brother an evil instrument," replied John of the Catacombs enigmatically.
"I fear you will have to learn manners in my school, Don Giovan," said Benilo in return. "But your answer. Are you ready?"
"This very night?" gasped the bravo, suspecting the offer and fearful of a snare.
"Why not?" demanded the Chamberlain curtly.
"I am bound in another's service!"
"You are an over-punctilious rogue, Don Giovan. To-morrow then!"
"Agreed!" gurgled the bravo, extending a monstrously large hand from under his gown, with a forefinger of extraordinary length, on the end of which there was a wart.
Benilo pretended not to see the proffered member. But before addressing himself further to John of the Catacombs he glanced round cautiously.
"Are we alone?"
The bravo nodded.