"Do I not always obey you, my lord?" asked Bena.
"But swear to me."
"Well, then, I swear," said Bena, "though in truth, my lord, your word is full as strong to me as any oath, whether by Prisian or another." For this man whom they called Bena was a godless man, and one that held holy things in light esteem. But he was a fine fighter and a loyal servant, and God's mercy is infinite. It may be his heart was turned at last; though indeed I have found no record of it.
"My lord, will you see my Lady Lucia in the city?" asked Bena.
"I trust at the least to see her face at her window," answered Antonio.
"Will you have speech with her, my lord?"
"If His Highness will grant me that favour, Bena."
"Ah, I know now why you smiled, my lord, as you rode, just now. It will be a bright day for you." And Bena laughed.
"Indeed," said Antonio, "I trust that the day may be bright for me. Yes, bright as the light of heaven."
"There is no light brighter than the eyes of the girl a man loves," said Bena.