"This explanation is wholly unnecessary, at least as far as regards
myself," interrupted Simon Turchi. "I desire you to search my
country-house as you do all the other dwellings in the vicinity."
They were not far from the bridge of Meir, and they ceased speaking, as in
so frequented a place they were in danger of being overheard. Farther on,
Turchi said: "I acknowledge, however, that I am hurt and irritated by the disrespect
and audacity of the populace. One might be tempted to suppose that they
considered me capable of killing my best friend! My blood boils at the
idea of such a suspicion!"
Simon gladly availed himself of the opportunity thus offered of
attributing to a just indignation the cruel anxiety which tortured him. He
had anticipated the announcement just made him by the bailiff, and in
consequence had taken suitable measures to screen himself in case of
discovery; but now a terrible doubt as to the result of the search, and as
to the confidence which might be reposed in his statements, arose in his
mind. The least unforeseen accident, the slightest oversight in his
arrangement, might be his ruin.
"It is scandalous!" he exclaimed, shaking his fist. "To express publicly
the opinion that a nobleman could so far degrade himself as to become a
secret assassin! I will know who my insolent calumniators are, and I will
then see if justice has power at Antwerp to protect an innocent stranger
against the defamation of the people!"
"Calm yourself, signor," said Messire Van Schoonhoven; "I comprehend your
well-founded indignation; but you are mistaken if you think the
perquisition ordered by the burgomaster and constables be, in your regard,
aught but a condescension to the clamors of the multitude. As for myself,
I beg you not to be displeased with me for accomplishing my duty."
"You need offer no excuse, messire," said Simon, speaking more calmly. "It
is but proper and natural to search my garden. I am irritated solely by
the insolence of the people. Do your duty, and continue to honor me with a
friendship of which I am proud, and of which I will always strive to be
worthy."
"When will it be convenient to you, Signor Turchi, to have the officers
visit your house?" asked the bailiff.
"The time is perfectly indifferent to me."
"But appoint an hour; I would regret causing you any inconvenience or
trouble."
Simon Turchi reflected a moment, and said: "To-morrow morning urgent affairs demand my attention; come then about
noon."