"
"We overlook thy language in consideration of the pass to which thy crimes
have reduced thee, unhappy man, though it is an aggravation of thy
offences, since it proves thou hast sinned equally against thyself and us.
This affair need go no farther; the headsman and the other travellers may
be dismissed: we commit the Italian to the irons."
Maso heard the order without alarm, though he appeared to be maintaining a
violent struggle with himself. He paced the chapel rapidly, and muttered
much between his teeth. His words were not intelligible, though they were
evidently of strong, if not violent, import. At length he stopped short,
in the manner of one who had decided.
"This-matter grows serious," he said: "it will admit of no farther
hesitation. Signor Grimaldi, command all to leave the chapel in whose
discretion you have not the most perfect confidence."
"I see none to be distrusted," answered the surprised Genoese.
"Then will I speak."
Chapter XXIX.
Thy voice to us is wind among still woods.
Shelley.
Notwithstanding the gravity of the facts which were accumulating against
him, Maso had maintained throughout the foregoing scene much of that
steady self-possession and discernment which were the fruits of adventure
in scenes of danger, long exposure, and multiplied hazards.
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