Some weeks passed over, and the Count of Morven contrived to become acquainted with the doctor. They appeared to be utter strangers to each other, though each knew the other; the doctor having disguised himself, he believed the disguise impenetrable and therefore sat at ease.
"Worthy doctor," said the count to him, one day; "you have, no doubt, in your studies, become acquainted with many of the secrets of science."
"I have, my lord count; I may say there are few that are not known to Father Aldrovani. I have spent many years in research."
"Indeed!"
"Yes; the midnight lamp has burned till the glorious sun has reached the horizon, and brings back the day, and yet have I been found beside my books."
"'Tis well; men like you should well know the value of the purest and most valuable metals the earth produces?"
"I know of but one—that is gold!"
"'Tis what I mean."
"But 'tis hard to procure from the bowels of the earth—from the heart of these mountains by which we are surrounded."