"Troilo, how can you so far forget yourself? You owe him as much respect as if he were my brother."
"Your brothers are worthy of respect, truly! The letter, Salviati—the letter!"
"I will never give it to you."
"Beware, or I will use force——"
"Would you act the ruffian? Do you not see that I am unarmed?"
"So much the better; I can the more easily accomplish my wishes. But had you a sword, it would make no difference; he who wields the pen, can ill wield the sword."
"The letter is next my heart," said Salviati, crossing his arms over his breast, "and you shall not have it unless you tear forth both."
"And I will do it——"
"Madman! Before touching him, you must pass over my body!" cried Isabella, rushing between Troilo and Lionardo.
"Back!" exclaimed Troilo, and with one dash of the hand he pushed the Duchess upon the couch.