Padua has not a doctor more learned than he who presents
my right to their wisdom, and yet the affair lingers like life in the
hectic. If I have not shown myself a worthy son of St. Mark, in this
affair with the Spaniard, it is more from the want of a habit of
managing political interests than from any want of zeal."
"The scales of justice must be nicely balanced to hang so long, without
determining to one side or the other! You will have need of further
assiduity, Don Camillo, and of great discretion in disposing the minds
of the patricians in your favor. It will be well to make your attachment
to the state be observed by further service near the ambassador. You are
known to have his esteem, and counsel coming from such a quarter will
enter deeply into his mind. It should also quicken the exertions of so
benevolent and generous a young spirit, to know that in serving his
country, he also aids the cause of humanity."
Don Camillo did not appear to be strongly impressed with the justice of
the latter remark. He bowed, however, in courtesy to his companion's
opinion.
"It is pleasant, Signore, to be thus persuaded," he answered; "my
kinsman of Castile is a man to hear reason, let it come from what
quarter it may. Though he meets my arguments with some allusions to the
declining power of the Republic, I do not see less of deep respect for
the influence of a state, that hath long made itself remarkable by its
energy and will.
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