Chapter 6 - Page 2

quick suspicious glance from the senator to the Bravo, as if
to read the true meaning of the latter's words. Finding, however, the
same expression of self-possession in the quiet features he scrutinized,
the latter continued as if distrust had not been awakened.

"If, as thou sayest, he so speaks as to injure the Republic, his years
have not brought discretion. I love the man, Jacopo, for it is usual to
regard, with some partiality, those who have drawn nourishment from the
same breast with ourselves."

"Signore, it is."

"And feeling this weakness in his favor, I would have him admonished to
be prudent. Thou art acquainted, doubtless, with his opinions concerning
the recent necessity of the state, to command the services of all the
youths on the Lagunes in her fleets?"

"I know that the press has taken from him the boy who toiled in his
company."

"To toil honorably, and perhaps gainfully, in behalf of the Republic!"

"Signore, perhaps!"

"Thou art brief in thy speech to-night, Jacopo! But if thou knowest the
fisherman, give him counsel of discretion. St. Mark will not tolerate
such free opinions of his wisdom. This is the third occasion in which
there has been need to repress that fisherman's speech; for the paternal
care of the senate cannot see discontent planted in the bosom of a
class, it is their duty and pleasure to render happy. Seek opportunities
to let him hear this wholesome truth, for in good sooth, I would not
willingly see a misfortune light upon the head of a son of my ancient
nurse, and that, too, in the decline of his days."

The Bravo bent his body in acquiescence, while the Signor Gradenigo
paced the room, in a manner to show that he really felt concern.

"Thou hast had advice of the judgment in the matter of the Genoese?"
resumed the latter, when another pause had given time to change the
current of his thoughts. "The sentence of the tribunals has been prompt,
and, though there is much assumption of a dislike between the two
republics, the world can now see how sternly justice is con sulted on
our isles. I hear the Genoese will have ample amends, and that certain
of our own citizens will be mulcted of much money."

"I have heard the same since the sun set, in the Piazzetta, Signore!"

"And do men converse of our impartiality, and more than all of our
promptitude? Bethink thee, Jacopo, 'tis but a se'nnight since the claim
was preferred to the senate's equity!"

"None dispute the promptitude with which the Republic visits offences."

"Nor the justice, I trust also, good Jacopo. There is a beauty and a
harmony in the