Page:The Italian - Radcliffe, volume 1 (1797).djvu/191

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"Why, Signor, the story is not generally known," said Paulo in a whisper; "I half promised never to re­veal it."

"If you are under any promise of secresy," interrup­ed Vivaldi, "I forbid you to tell this wonderful tale, which, however, seems somewhat too big to rest with­in your brain."

"The story would fain expand itself to your's, Sig­nor," said Paulo; "and, as I did not absolutely pro­mise to conceal it, I am very willing to reveal it."

"Proceed, then," said Vivaldi; "but let me once more caution you to speak low."

"You are obeyed, Signor. You must know then, Maestro, that it was on the eve of the festival of San­to Marco, and about six years since"———

"Peace!" said Vivaldi. They were silent; but every thing remaining still, Paulo, after some time ventured to proceed, though in a yet lower whisper. "It was on the eve of the Santo Marco, and when the last bellhad

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