'Ready!' cried the alchemist.
The pot was now removed from the furnace and allowed to cool. Then before the astounded spectators, there fell from it, sparkling and resounding on the earthen floor, a bar of gold. The alchemist pointed dramatically, and exclaimed:—
'Solve mihi hunc syllogismum!'
'Unheard of! Incredible! Against all the laws of nature and of logic!' murmured Marliani in stupefaction.
The face of Galeotto was white, his eyes glowed with the fire of inspiration, and looking up to heaven, he cried:—
'Laudetur Deus in æternum! Praise God in eternity who deigns to give part of his infinite power unto us, the most abject of his creatures.'
The gold was tested with sulphuric acid. It proved to be purer than the finest of Hungary or Arabia. The company pressed about the venerable philosopher, congratulating him, and wringing his hands. Il Moro took him aside.
'You serve me in fidelity and truth, Messer Galeotto?'
'I would I had more lives than one, that I might dedicate them all to your Excellency,' replied the alchemist.
'Then, Galeotto, beware lest any of the other princes——'