By Heaven! I’d rather grapple with the Hun,
Or serve the turbaned Turk, than linger life out
In such concealed bondage! ’Twas but now,
Even at the masque, I saw the peering eyes
Of that dark villain, Steno, fixed upon me.
I’ve marked him oft—he serves the state in secret!
Mine arm ached for the dagger, as I watched
His lowering face.
Leonardo.
Are you alone in fear?