"It has further been decided that the blow be struck from England."
"England!" was the involuntary exclamation.
"Yes," said the other, calmly. "To give full effect to such a warning it must be clear to the world that it has nothing to do with any private revenge or low intrigue. Assassination has been too frequent in Italy of late. The doubting throughout the world must be convinced that we have agents everywhere; and that we are no mere local society for the revenging of private wrongs."
Lind again bowed assent.
"Further," said the other, regarding him, "the Council charge you with the execution of the decree."
Lind had almost expected this: he did not flinch.
"After twelve months' grace granted, you will be prepared with a sure and competent agent who will give effect to the decree of the Council; failing such a one, the duty will devolve on your own shoulders."
"On mine!" he was forced to exclaim. "Surely—"
"Do you forget," said the other, calmly, "that sixteen years ago your life was forfeited, and given back to you by the Council?"
"So I understood," said Lind. "But it was not my life that was given me then!—only the lease of it till the Council should claim it again. However!"