"Are there not other churches in Rome?"—
"Ay!" mouthed the black form. "But the time of the great sacrifice draws near—"
"I knew not it was so near at hand," interposed Basil with a start.
"The Becco Notturno demands a bride!"
"How am I to help you in these matters?"
"Am I to counsel the Lord Basil?" sneered the shape. "You drew the crimson ball."
"When is it to be?"
"Three weeks from to-night. Mark you—a stainless dove!"
Basil nodded, an evil smile upon his lips.
"It shall be as you say! As for that other—I am minded to try his mettle—"