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"Hark, co to Abellino; "to-day

thou shalt make thy first step in our profession"

"To-day!" hoarsely murmured Abellino; "and on whom am I to show my

skill?"

"Nay, to say truth, 'tis but a wo beginner I will myself accompany you,

and see how you conduct yourself in the first trial"

"Hum!" said Abellino, and measured Matteo with his eye from head to

foot

"To-day, about four o'clock, thou shalt follow ardens, which are situated on the south side of Venice We ardens are excellent

baths; and after using the baths, the Doge's niece, the lovely

Rosabella of Corfu, frequently walks without attendants And then--

you conceive me?"

"And you will accompany me?"

"I will be a spectator of your first adventure; 'tis thus I deal by

every one"

"And how er?"

"To the hilt, boy, to the very hilt! Her death is required, and the

payrave, we are rich for

life"