"I pretend not to place my poor thoughts against those of my Prince," answered the fisherman; "my fears and shame have led me to believe that it would give more pleasure to the noble and gay had a younger and happier borne away this honor."
"Thou must not think this. Bend then thy knee, that I may bestow the prize. When the sun sets thou wilt find those in my palace who will relieve thee of the ornament at a just remuneration."
"Highness!" said Antonio, looking earnestly at the Doge, who again arrested his movement in surprise, "I am old, and little wont to be spoilt by fortune. For my wants, the Lagunes, with the favor of the Holy St. Anthony, are sufficient; but it is in thy power to make the last days of an old man happy, and to have thy name remembered in many an honest and well meant prayer. Grant me back my child, forget the boldness of a heart-broken father!"
"Is not this he who urged us with importunity concerning a youth that is gone into the service of the state?" exclaimed the Prince, across whose countenance passed that expression of habitual reserve which so often concealed the feelings of the man.
"The same," returned a cold voice, which the ear of Antonio well knew came from the Signor Gradenigo.
"Pity for thy ignorance, fisherman, represses our anger. Receive thy chain, and depart."
Antonio's eye did not waver. He kneeled with an air of profound respect, and folding his hands on his bosom, he said—
"Misery has made me bold, dread Prince! What I say comes from a heavy heart rather than from a licentious tongue, and I pray your royal ear to listen with indulgence."
"Speak briefly, for the sports are delayed."
"Mighty Doge! riches and poverty have caused a difference in our fortunes, which knowledge and ignorance have made wider. I am rude in my discourse, and little suited to this illustrious company. But, Signore, God hath given to the fisherman the same feelings, and the same love for his offspring, as he has given to a prince. Did I place dependence only on the aid of my poor learning, I should now be dumb, but there is a strength within that gives me courage to speak to the first and noblest in Venice in behalf of my child!"