"Sono molto feroce questi palicari," said my guide.
"Oh! yes, they are terrible fellows!" I replied.
"What does the Frank say?" they asked.
"He says you are terrible fellows."
"Ah! I think we are, indeed. But don't be afraid, Frank; don't be afraid!"
"No," said I, "I won't; and I wish you good luck on your way to Berat and back again."
This night the people had been so much occupied in purchasing the implements of death that I heard no accounts of any new murders. In fact it had been a dull day in that respect; but no doubt they would make up for it before long.
CHAPTER XVIII.
Start for Meteora—Rencontre with a Wounded Traveller—Barbarity of the Robbers—Albanian Innkeeper—Effect of the Turkish Language upon the Greeks—Mezzovo—Interview with the chief Person in the Village—Mount Pindus—Capture by Robbers—Salutary effects of Swaggering—Arrival under Escort at the Robbers' Head-Quarters—Affairs take a favourable turn—An unexpected Friendship with the Robber Chief—The Khan of Malacash—Beauty of the Scenery—Activity of our Guards—Loss of Character—Arrival at Meteora.