" He bowed and raising his
right hand, made the sign of the cross, while the father guardian
slowly, and with a frowning brow, passed through the room. Having
reached the opposite door, he paused and looked back; but seeing the
prior still standing upon the threshold of his room, and gazing
after him, he dashed open the door and disappeared. "Now, sir," said
the prior, entering and closing the door carefully, "we are alone,
and I am ready to listen to you."
"I pray your worship to read first the letter of your brother, the
Abbe Bastiani."
"Ah! he has told you that I am his brother?" said the prior,
eagerly. "He trusts you then, fully? Well, I will read the letter."
He opened and read it impatiently. "This is a very laconic and
enigmatical letter," said he. "My brother refers me wholly to you;
he assures me I can confide entirely in your silence and discretion,
and entreats me to assist you in the attainment of your object. Make
known to me then, signor, in what way I can serve you, and what aim
you have in view."
"First, I will give your worship a proof that I trust you fully and
unconditionally. I will tell you who I am, and then make known my
purpose; you will then be able to decide how far you can give me
counsel and aid.
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