GIANETTINO (drawing forth a letter with a great seal). 'Tis fortunate that he is here already. Art thou surprised at this? And didst thou think me mad enough to brave the fury of enraged republicans had I not known they were betrayed and sold?
LOMELLINO (with astonishment). I know not what to think!
GIANETTINO. But I have thought of something which thou couldst not know. My plan is formed. Ere two days are past twelve senators must fall. Doria becomes sovereign, and the Emperor Charles protects him. Thou seemest astonished——
LOMELLINO. Twelve senators! My heart is too narrow to comprehend a twelvefold murder.
GIANETTINO. Fool that thou art! The throne will absolve the deed. I consulted with the ministers of Charles on the strong party which France still has in Genoa, and by which she might a second time seize on it unless they should be rooted out. This worked upon the emperor—he approved my projects—and thou shalt write what I will dictate to thee.
LOMELLINO. I know not yet your purpose.
GIANETTINO. Sit down and write——
LOMELLINO. But what am I to write? (Seats himself.)
GIANETTINO. The names of the twelve candidates for death—Francis Zenturione.
LOMELLINO (writes). In gratitude for his vote he leads the funeral procession.