The assassin fell heavily, and in a plaintive voice, as though bidding
adieu to life, exclaimed: "O mojo! I die! Bufferio is dead!"
Disregarding the villain who had fallen, the gentleman rushed upon the
other two and wounded one in the shoulder. Convinced that they had to deal
with a powerful and skilful adversary, they turned and fled, Geronimo
pursuing them far beyond the well.
Julio followed him, crying, vociferating, and striking with his sword in
the dark, as though he were contending with numerous enemies. When
Geronimo returned with the servant to the spot where he had left the dead
body of the ruffian, he found three or four watchmen calling for help.
Many heads were thrust from the windows, and one citizen even ventured out
of his house with a lamp in his hand.
The watchmen, having inquired as to what had taken place, examined the
body to see if there were any signs of life.
"Leave him!" said one; "it is Bufferio. God be praised! the man has at
last met the fate which he deserved."
In the meantime, Julio had commenced to boast. He related that he had to
deal with two assassins at once, that he had wounded one in the face, and
pierced the other with his sword. How the latter had been able to run
away, was unaccountable; no doubt he would be found near at hand, dead or
dying.
The young gentleman, who really believed the story of Turchi's servant,
thanked him for his assistance, and acknowledged that he owed his life to
him, as he had given the warning of the approach of the assassins.
The dead body was removed behind the well until the city authorities
should order its burial.
The head watchman approached Geronimo, and said to him: "Where do you live, signor? Two of my men will accompany you, lest some
other accident might befall you. Do not refuse the offer. The villains who
escaped might be on the watch for you, in order to avenge the death of
their companions."
"What shall I do?" said the gentleman to Julio. "I cannot give the
serenade without the lute-players, and, besides, I could not sing after
such emotion. But Miss Van de Werve is expecting it, and if I do not go,
she will imagine that some accident has happened to me. It would be better
for me to see Mr. Van de Werve, so as to remove any cause of anxiety. I
accept your offer, watchmen, and I will liberally recompense the services
you render me. I must return to Kipdorp, and you will do me the favor to
wait a few minutes, in order to accompany me to my dwelling. Follow me."