130. “Let me go,” replied Mateo: “I am his father.”
131. Giuseppa embraced her son, and went back crying into the hut. She threw herself on her knees before an image of the Virgin, and prayed with fervor.
Forecast.
132. Meanwhile, Falcone had walked about two-hundred yards along the path, and stopped at a little ravine, which he descended. He sounded the earth with the butt of his gun and found it soft and easy to dig. The spot seemed suitable for his design.
Suspense.
133. “Fortunato, go near to that large rock.”
134. The boy did as he was commanded, then he knelt down.
135. “Say your prayers.”
136. “Father, Father, do not kill me!”
137. “Say your prayers!” repeated Mateo in a terrible voice.