"It may be well, Signore Soranzo, to do this homage to the right,"
returned the elder. "Here have been sundry charges found in different
lions' mouths against the Neapolitan, Signor Don Camillo Monforte. I
leave it to your wisdom, my illustrious colleagues, to decide on their
character."
"An excess of malice betrays its own origin," exclaimed the least
practised member of the Inquisition. "My life on it, Signori, these
accusations come of private spleen, and are unworthy of the state's
attention. I have consorted much with the young lord of Sant' Agata, and
a more worthy gentleman does not dwell among us."
"Still hath he designs on the hand of old Tiepolo's daughter!"
"Is it a crime in youth to seek beauty? He did great service to the
lady in her need, and that youth should feel these sympathies is nothing
strange."
"Venice hath her sympathies, as well as the youngest of us all,
Signore."
"But Venice cannot wed the heiress!"
"True. St. Mark must be satisfied with playing the prudent father's
part. You are yet young, Signore Soranzo, and the Donna Giulietta is of
rare beauty! As life wears upon ye both, ye will see the fortunes of
kingdoms, as well as of families, differently. But we waste our breath
uselessly in this matter, since our agents have not yet reported their
success in the pursuit. The most pressing affair, just now, is the
disposition of the Bravo. Hath his Highness shown you the letter of the
sovereign pontiff, in the question of the intercepted dispatches,
Signore?"
"He hath.
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