The Breaking of the Storm. Spielhagen Friedrich

going.

      "Thank heaven I have found you at last, signora," said he in his soft voice, which seemed to tremble a little from breathless haste. "I have looked for you everywhere, to tell you that Signor Anders has not been able to wait downstairs any longer. He was obliged to keep an appointment which was settled for two o'clock."

      "So much the better," answered Ferdinanda; "I was just starting to go home."

      "It is a pity!" said Philip. "I wanted to hear your opinion of a wonderful young Bacchus by Müller; Herr Anders has not yet sold his 'Satyr;' I am doubting between the two, perhaps I shall buy both, and your 'Shepherd Boy' too, Ferdinanda, if you will only put a decent price on it."

      "Are you coming with us, Antonio?" asked Ferdinanda impatiently.

      "I think I will stay a little longer," answered the Italian, hesitating.

      "Very well. Come. Addio, Signer Antonio!"

      "Addio, signora!"

      The Italian remained in the door between the second room and the clock-room, his black eyes following the receding figures till they disappeared through the entrance; then they turned back upon the second room, and remained fixed upon Ottomar with a look of deadly hate.

      "Now I know from whom the letters are which she so often reads! You shall pay for it, per Bacco!" he murmured between his white teeth.