Page:Francesca Carrara 2.pdf/204

Rh "Let me know who he is," asked the man; "my falcon shall perch on no hand whose veins run not with gentle blood."

"Of that you may judge yourself," answered she, indicating the intended purchaser by a slight turn of her head.

The stranger looked at Guido from head to foot; apparently his survey was quite satisfactory, for he crossed the room, and said,—

"I am right loath to part with the brave bird that has been my companion these two months; but poverty has no choice. Few words drive a bargain with Peter Eskett. I never abate one farthing of my price; but then that price never asks more than a fair profit. The bird sleeps now; but to-morrow, so please you, it shall take a fair flight, and it is then yours at the price for which it was promised to Lord Stukeley."

Guido agreed at once to the sum; but added, "I doubt our being much the wiser for the trial, as, I tell you frankly, I know nothing of the sport. My desire to possess the bird has another origin."

The man looked his discontent, when Francesca, who began to fear a refusal from his expression, said, "But we shall take your directions as to the management of our prize; and I can