CHAPTER XXXVI
THE CARNIVAL AT ROME
HEN Franz recovered his senses, he saw Albert drinking a glass of water, of which his paleness showed he stood in great need, and the count, who was assuming his costume of paillasse.
He glanced mechanically toward the piazza: all had disappeared—scaffold, executioners, victims; nought remained but the people, full of noise and excitement. The bell of Monte Citorio, which only sounds on the pope's decease and the opening of the Carnival, was ringing a joyous peal.
"Well," asked he of the count, "what has, then, happened?"
"Nothing," replied the count; "only, as 'you see, the Carnival has commenced. Make haste and dress yourself."
"Tn reality," said Franz, "this horrible scene has passed away like a dream."
"Tt is but a dream—the nightmare that has disturbed you."
"Yes, that I have suffered; but the culprit?"
"That is a dream also; only he has remained asleep, whilst you have awoke; and who knows which of you is the most fortunate?"
"But Peppino—what has become of him?"
"Peppino is a lad of sense, who, unlike most men, who are furious if they pass unnoticed, was delighted to see that the general attention was directed toward his companion. He profited by this distraction to slip away amongst the crowd, without even thanking the worthy priests who accompanied him. Decidedly man is an ungrateful and egotistical animal. But dress yourself; see, M. de Morcerf sets you the example."
Albert was in reality drawing on the satin pantaloon over his black trousers and varnished boots.
154
