Flodoardo.—Because my own country is not governed by an Andreas.
Andreas.—You have intentions, it seems, of discovering the haunts of the banditti, who for some time past have caused so many tears to flow in Venice?
Flodoardo.—If your Highness would deign to confide in me, I would answer with my head for their delivery into the hands of your officers, and that speedily.
Andreas.—That were much for a stranger to perform. I would fain make the trial whether you can keep your word.
Flodoardo.—That is sufficient. To-morrow, or the day after at least, will I perform my promise.
Andreas.—And you make that promise so resolutely? Are you aware, young man, how dangerous a task it is to surprise these miscreants? They are never to be found when sought for, and always present when least expected; they are at once everywhere and nowhere. There exists not a nook in Venice which our spies are not acquainted with, or have left unexamined, and yet has our police endeavoured in vain to discover the place of their concealment.
Flodoardo.—I know all this, and to know it rejoices me, since it affords me an opportunity of convincing the Doge of Venice, that my actions are not those of a common adventurer.
Andreas.—Perform your promise, and then let me hear of you. For the present our discourse shall end here, for no unpleasant thoughts must disturb the joy to which this day is dedicated. Rosabella, would you not like to join the dancers? Count, I confide her to your care.
Flodoardo.—I could not be entrusted with a more precious charge.
Rosabella, during this conversation, had been leaning against the back of her uncle’s chair. She repeated to herself Lomellino’s assertion, “that to see Flodoardo, and not to like him, was as difficult as to look at Paradise and not wish to enter;” and while she gazed on the youth, she allowed that Lomellino had not exaggerated. When her uncle desired Flodoardo to conduct her to the dancers, a soft blush overspread her cheek, and she doubted whether she should accept or decline the hand which was immediately offered.