But it was not gold, nor any vanity to be
seen among my equals with that glittering jewel, that led me to meet the
scorn of the gondoliers, and the displeasure of the great."
"Thou art deceived, honest fisherman, if thou supposest that we regard
thy just ambition with displeasure. We love to see a generous emulation
among our people, and take all proper means to encourage those aspiring
spirits who bring honor to a state, and fortune to our shores."
"I pretend not to place my poor thoughts against those of my Prince,"
answered the fisherman; "my fears and shame have led me to believe that
it would give more pleasure to the noble and gay had a younger and
happier borne away this honor."
"Thou must not think this. Bend then thy knee, that I may bestow the
prize. When the sun sets thou wilt find those in my palace who will
relieve thee of the ornament at a just remuneration."
"Highness!" said Antonio, looking earnestly at the Doge, who again
arrested his movement in surprise, "I am old, and little wont to be
spoilt by fortune. For my wants, the Lagunes, with the favor of the Holy
St. Anthony, are sufficient; but it is in thy power to make the last
days of an old man happy, and to have thy name remembered in many an
honest and well meant prayer. Grant me back my child, forget the
boldness of a heart-broken father!"
"Is not this he who urged us with importunity concerning a youth that is
gone into the service of the state?" exclaimed the Prince, across whose
countenance passed that expression of habitual reserve which so often
concealed the feelings of the man.
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