"The same," returned a cold voice, which the ear of Antonio well knew
came from the Signor Gradenigo.
"Pity for thy ignorance, fisherman, represses our anger. Receive thy
chain, and depart."
Antonio's eye did not waver. He kneeled with an air of profound respect,
and folding his hands on his bosom, he said--
"Misery has made me bold, dread Prince! What I say comes from a heavy
heart rather than from a licentious tongue, and I pray your royal ear to
listen with indulgence."
"Speak briefly, for the sports are delayed."
"Mighty Doge! riches and poverty have caused a difference in our
fortunes, which knowledge and ignorance have made wider. I am rude in my
discourse, and little suited to this illustrious company. But, Signore,
God hath given to the fisherman the same feelings, and the same love for
his offspring, as he has given to a prince. Did I place dependence only
on the aid of my poor learning, I should now be dumb, but there is a
strength within that gives me courage to speak to the first and noblest
in Venice in behalf of my child!"
"Thou canst not impeach the senate's justice, old man, or utter aught in
truth against the known impartiality of the laws?"
"Sovrano mio! deign to listen, and you shall hear. I am what your eyes
behold--a man, poor, laborious, and drawing near to the hour when he
shall be called to the side of the blessed St. Anthony of Rimini, and
stand in a presence even greater than this.
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