“I would have refused you all you ask, to punish you for going back to that story,” said Giuseppa, “but I really desire to see old Luxehale get a good drubbing, just now, for he has been very tiresome to-day. I daren’t give it him myself, but I’ll help you to do it, if you have a mind.”
“Never mind the motive, provided you give me the help,” replied Clamer. “And will you help me to trick him out of the answers for the three kings, as well as to give him a good drubbing?”
“That will I; for it will be good fun to counter-act some of his mischief.”
“How shall we set about it then?”
“I am just going to bed; he is asleep already. You must conceal yourself in the curtains, and bring a big stick with you; and when I make a sign, you must, without a moment’s notice, set to and give it him. Will that do for you?”
“Admirably! Only, remember, I have to do it three times, or I shan’t get my guerdon.”
“And do you think you are certain of getting all Eligio Righi’s fortune?” said Giuseppa, earnestly.
“Oh, as sure as fate!” replied Clamer; “he’s a man who never goes back from his word. But I must fulfil all he says with equal exactness.”
“And when I’ve helped you with half your labour, I don’t see why I shouldn’t have half your guerdon.”
“Nor I! You’ll always find me faithful and true; and what I offered you when I was poor, I offer you with equal heartiness when I have the prospect of being the richest man in Trient.”