The Count went to his window overlooking the street and whistled in a peculiar way. The cloaked man left the wall and moved to the center of the street.
"Come up!" the Count commanded in a tone he might use with a servant.
Without hesitation, in fact, eagerly, the messenger bounded up the steps and entered the hotel. Five seconds later, he was at the room's door.
"Ah, it's you, Peppino," the Count said.
But instead of answering, Peppino dropped to his knees, seized the Count's hand, and covered it with kisses.
"Ah," the Count said, "so you haven't forgotten that I saved your life. That's surprising, it was only a week ago."
"No, Your Excellency, and I'll never forget it," Peppino replied with profound gratitude.
"Never is a long time, but I appreciate your belief. Stand up and answer my questions." Peppino glanced nervously at Franz.
