For the solution of this revolting trait of human character we
are not to look to Venice and her institutions, since it is known that
none are so arrogant, on occasions, as the ridden, and that the abject
and insolent spirits are usually tenants of the same bosom.
The movement of the boats brought those of the masked waterman, and the
subjects of those taunts, side by side.
"Thou art not the favorite in this strife," observed the former, when a
fresh burst of jibes was showered on the head of his unresisting
associate. "Thou hast not been sufficiently heedful of thy attire, for
this is a town of luxury, and he who would meet applause must appear on
the canals in the guise of one less borne upon by fortune."
"I know them! I know them!" returned the fisherman; "they are led away
by their pride, and they think ill of one who cannot share in their
vanities. But, friend unknown, I have brought with me a face, which, old
though it be, and wrinkled, and worn by the weather like the stones of
the sea-shore, is uncovered to the eye, and without shame."
"There may be reasons which thou knowest not, why I wear a mask. But if
my face be hid the limbs are bare, and thou seest there is no lack of
sinews to make good that which I have undertaken. Thou should'st have
thought better of the matter ere thou puttest thyself in the way of so
much mortification. Defeat will not cause the people to treat thee more
tenderly.
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