"The park was very extensive, and enclosed by a high wall, which had light iron gratings placed here and there, to afford a view of the surrounding country. I happened to be standing near one of these gratings, when M. Beaumanoir fired at a pheasant.
"'Signore,' said a countryman, who was passing, 'questo castello e il castello d'Anticoli?'
"'Villager,' I replied, walking towards the grating, 'I do not understand Italian; speak French, and I shall be happy to answer.'
"'What! Is it you, M. Louet?' exclaimed the peasant.
"'Yes, it is,' said I; 'but how do you know my name?'
"'Hush! I am Ernest, the hussar officer, your travelling companion.'
"'M. Ernest! Ah! Mademoiselle Zephyrine will be delighted.'
"'Zephyrine is really here, then?'
"'Certainly she is. A prisoner like myself.'
"'And Count Villaforte?'