"Calabressa has no doubt informed you of the matter before the Council. That is now decided; the decree has been signed. Zaccatelli dies within a year from this day. The motives which have led to this decision may hereafter be explained to you, even if they have not already occurred to you; they are motives of policy, as regards ourselves and the progress of our work, as well as of justice." Ferdinand Lind listened, without response. "It has further been decided that the blow be struck from England." "England!" was the involuntary exclamation. "Yes," said the other, calmly. "To give full effect to such a warning it must be clear to the world that it has nothing to do with any private revenge or low intrigue. Assassination has been too frequent in Italy of late. The doubting throughout the world must be convinced that we have agents everywhere; and that we are no mere local society for the revenging of private wrongs." Lind again bowed assent. "Further," said the other, regarding him, "the Council charge you with the execution of the decree." Lind had almost expected this: he did not flinch. "After twelve months' grace granted, you will be prepared with a sure and competent agent who will give effect to the decree of the Council; failing such a one, the duty will devolve on your own shoulders." "On mine!" he was forced to exclaim. "Surely--" "Do you forget," said the other, calmly, "that sixteen years ago your life was forfeited, and given back to you by the Council?" "So I understood," said Lind. "But it was not my life that was given me then!--only the lease of it till the Council should claim it again. However!" He drew himself up, and the powerful face was full of decision. "It is well," said he. "I do not complain. If I exact obedience from others, I, too, obey. The Council shall be served." "Further instructions shall be given you. Meanwhile, the Council once more thank you for your attendance. Farewell, brother!" "Farewell, brother!" When he had gone, and the bell again rung, Calabressa reappeared. Lind was too proud a man to betray any concern. "It is as you told me, Calabressa," said he, carelessly, as his friend proceeded to light him down the narrow staircase. "And I am charged with the execution of their vengeance. Well; I wish I had been present at their deliberations, that is all. This deed may answer so far as the continental countries are concerned; but, so far as England is concerned, it will undo the work of years." "What!--England!" exclaimed Calabressa, lightly--"where they blow up a man's house with gunpowder, or dash vitriol in his face, if he works for a shilling a day less wages?--where they shoot landlords from behind hedges if the rent is raised?--where they murder policemen in the open street, to release political prisoners? No, no, friend Lind; I cannot believe that."