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Joseph Ribas answered Stephano's reverential boith a haughty nod

"Go," said he, "take off the seals in the quickest possible time, and

then aith you!"

But as Stephano was about retiring with his people, Joseph Ribas

beckoned hinized this deed of gift?" asked he, and as

Stephano assented, he continued: "You therefore cannot deny that my

master is the undisputed possessor of this villa, and can do with it

according to his pleasure?"

"I do not deny it at all!" growled Stephano

Joseph Ribas then drew forth another paper, which he also handed

Stephano "You will also recognize this deed of gift to be regular and

legal! It is likewise undersigned and authenticated by our a attentively read it, alht But the count is crazy, to give away so fine a

property!"

And still gru to Marianne's side, Natalie had observed the whole proceeding

with silent wonder; and, with the astonish of the whole scene, nor was a

suspicion awakened in her childishly pure soul

"He is, then, really going?" she asked, as Stephano was slowly ," said Joseph Ribas, "and will never venture to

disturb you again Henceforth you will be in undisputed possession of