"Highness, yes; we were to be married, should it have pleased God, and those great senators who have so much influence over the happiness of the poor, to permit it."
"And thou art still willing, knowing the man, to pledge thy vows to one like Jacopo?"
"It is because I do know him to be as he is, that I most reverence him, great Doge. He has sold his time and his good name to the state, in order to save his imprisoned father, and in that I see nothing to frighten one he loves."
"This affair needs explanation, Carmelite. The girl has a heated fancy, and she renders that obscure she should explain."
"Illustrious prince, she would say that the Republic was content to grant the son the indulgence of visiting the captive, with some encouragement of his release, on condition that the youth might serve the police by bearing a bravo's reputation."
"And for this incredible tale, father, you have the word of a condemned, criminal!"
"With the near view of death before his eyes. There are means of rendering truth evident, familiar to those who are often near the dying penitents, that are unknown to those of the world. In any case, Signore, the matter is worthy of investigation."
"In that thou art right. Is the hour named for the execution?"
"With the morning light, prince."
"And the father?"