Page:Victor Hugo's Works (Guernsey Edition) v14.djvu/80

58

Who is it would have speech of Malatesta?

You know me, Count?

Dell' Aquila, well met!

But your companion? [Aside.] Ha! a petticoat!

So ho, my poet!

Pardon, if I pray

This lady's name may rest a secret, Count;

She is in grievous danger,—one from which

Your house can shelter her. She owes already

Your countess much, for good help given at need.

So craves to increase the debt.

My house is hers,

But she should know my countess is not here.

Not here!

But if she dare trust my grey hairs

She shall have shelter.

Nay, she cannot choose.

I'll give her my wife's chamber, if she will;

Her woman to attend her.