“The whole idea terrifies me,” Paolina sighed.
She walked into the house where they had stayed the night to find Gasparo and his wife arousing themselves from their siesta. And yet, even so, it was some time before the cart, drawn by an undernourished mule, was ready, and then quite a time was passed in saying a farewell.
“I am afraid I cannot pay you in money for your hospitality,” she heard Sir Harvey say to Gasparo. “All I possessed was lost in the ship. But will you accept this precious stone? It is a sapphire of good quality and will, if you sell it to a reputable dealer, provide you with a decent sum to save against your old age.”
“You are more than generous, signor,” Gasparo cried, taking the stone in his hands. “The ship has brought a wealth to the village, which is very welcome
