As Raife was lighting a second cigar, he was vaguely conscious of a young boy or girl who dodged in the shadows behind him. The strongest man likes to meet his friends face to face, but a potential foe lurking in shadows on a moonlight night in a southern land, is disconcerting.
Watching an opportunity, therefore, Raife wheeled suddenly around, and making a dash for the youngster, secured him. The young girl, who appeared to be about thirteen years of age, did not seem alarmed, but smiled seductively, saying: “Signor Raife! meet a preety signora. Meea take you there.”
At the same time, the girl handed Raife a piece of paper on which was written:
“Quite safe. Follow the girl.”
Again those words of warning from his dying father.
Was this the trap.
In his present mood he did not care, and welcomed an adventure even if it should be dangerous.
He followed the little girl.