Page 383 (2/2)

"And you would be so unselfish as to keep froe of your

benevolence, you would bless him quite secretly! But how if I should

betray you, and communicate your precious secret to his holiness the

pope? Yes, yes, I shall open olden lock put upon ly apply such a lock!" said the pleased prior

"But, that it may entirely close my mouth, the lock will need to be very

heavy!" responded Albani, with a laugh

"It is so--it weighs six thousand scudi!" said the prior

"That is ; "it will hardly

cover my mouth It still remains that I am to undertake a very hazardous

affair Reflect, if any one should discover anelli should perceive that it is not wine from his

own cellar that I have poured into the cup for hin to ht lose my head, and

you venture to offer me a poor six thousand scudi for it! Adieu, then,

pious fathers, keep you your golden lock, and I my unclosed lips I

shall knohen and where to speak!"

And the cardinalafter him, the prior

handed him a small flask, the contents of which were clear and pure as

crystal water, tianelli's communion wine, and ten thousand scudi are yours!"