Lucia
Models demand impossible prices——
[Paulo puts his hand on her mouth angrily.
Medici
(Reflecting.) So little more, and it were a masterpiece. Even now it should win the Competition, by rights. Yet Vernio’s is just a shade more rich, more splendid. I have seen it. And Gagliano has a purer colour. But then, of course, Gagliano buys his paint from that fellow by the Zucca who has a secret method—and charges accordingly, the scoundrel!
Paulo
(Unable to contain himself longer.) I paint as I desire, and as I can. The picture is mine. And not for sale!
Medici
(Kindly.) I admire your spirit, Signor. It has the independence of ancient Greece herself. Yet at what price? You may be satisfied with yourself, but your art thereby suffers. It becomes a slave of your conditions—if you will allow the language.
Lucia