As the learned say, I am not yet classed. We are repaid
for an evil night by a fine day; and the descent into Italy will be
pleasanter than we found the coming up. Shall I order honest Giacomo of
Aoste to prepare the supper, and to air the beds for the noble company
that is to follow? You will scarce do more than reach his holstery before
the young and the beautiful will begin to think of their pillows."
"Maso, I had thought thee among our party, when I left the Refuge this
morning?"
"By San Thomaso! Signore, but I had the same opinion touching yourself!"
"Thou wert early afoot it would seem, or thou couldst not have so much
preceded me?"
"Look you, brave Signor Sigismondo, for brave I know you to be, and in the
water a swimmer little less determined than gallant Nettuno there--I am a
traveller, and have much need of my time which is the larger portion of my
property. We sea-animals are sometimes rich and sometimes poor, as the
wind happens to blow, and of late I have been driven to struggle with foul
gales and troubled waves. To such a man, an hour of industry in the
mornings often gives a heartier meal and sweeter rest at night.
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