Scarcely had he spoke when three or four heads appeared above the edge of the coach. "Haste!--your money!" said one. "Stop!" said Buttons. "This gentleman is the American Plenipotentiary Extraordinary, who has just come from Florence, and is on his way to communicate with Garibaldi." "Garibaldi!" cried the man, in a tone of deep respect. "Yes," said Buttons, who had not miscalculated the effect of that mighty name. "If you harm us or plunder us you will have to settle your account with Garibaldi--that's all!" The man was silent. Then he leaped down, and in another moment another man came. "Which is the American Plenipotentiary Extraordinary?" "He," said Buttons, pointing to the Senator. "Ah! I know him. It is the same. I saw him at his reception in Florence, and helped to pull his carriage." The Senator calmly eyed the brigand, who had respectfully taken off his hat. "So you are going to communicate with Garibaldi at once. Go in peace! Gentlemen every one of us fought under Garibaldi at Rome. Ten years ago he disbanded a large number of us among these mountains. I have the honor to inform you that ever since that time I have got my living out of the public, especially those in the service of the Government. You are different. I like you because you are Americans. I like you still better because you are friends of Garibaldi. Go in peace! When you see the General tell him Giuglio Malvi sends his respects." And the man left them. In about a quarter of an hour the barricade was removed, and the passengers resumed their seats with lighter purses but heavier hearts. The diligence started, and once more went thundering along the mountain road. "I don't believe we've seen the last of these scoundrels yet," said Buttons. "Nor I," said Dick. A general conversation followed. It was late, and but few things were visible along the road. About two hours passed away without any occurrence. "Look!" cried Dick, suddenly. They looked. About a quarter of a mile ahead a deep red glow arose above the forest, illumining the sky. The windings of the road prevented them from seeing the cause of it. The driver was startled, but evidently thought it was no more dangerous to go on than to stop. So he lashed up his horses and set them off at a furious gallop. The rumble of the ponderous wheels shut out all other sounds. As they advanced the light grew more vivid. "I shouldn't wonder," said the Senator, "if we have another barricade here. Be ready, boys! We won't get off so easily this time." The other two said not a word. On, and on. The report of a gun suddenly roused all. The driver lashed his horses. The postillions took the butts of their riding-whips and pelted the animals. The road took a turn, and, passing this a strange scene burst upon their sight.