‘This is a time for those in power to choose their way very carefully. There are a good many discontented people, and the government is going to have more of a pull than you think to hold its own—there’s revolution in the air.’
Melville faced him squarely.
‘For goodness’ sake, Sybert, I don’t know how much influence you have, or anything about it, but do what you can to keep things quiet. Of course the government has made mistakes—as what government has not? But until there’s something better to be substituted there’s no use kicking. Plainly, the people are too ignorant to govern themselves, and the House of Savoy is the only means of salvation.’
Sybert waved his hand impatiently.
‘I haven’t been trying to undermine the government, I assure you. I know well enough that for a good many years to come Italy won’t have anything better to offer, and all my influence with the Italians—which naturally isn’t much—has been advice of the same nature. I know very well that if any radical change were attempted, only anarchy would result; so I counsel these poor starving beggars “patience” like a skulking coward.’
‘Very well; I don’t see then why you have any objection to keeping on with your counsel, and at the same time give them something to eat.’
‘It’s the looks of the thing—standing up openly on the side of the authorities when I’m not with them in sympathy.’
‘It’s a long sight better for a person in your position than standing up openly against the authorities.’
‘Oh, as for that, I’m thinking of resigning from the legation, and then I’ll be free to do as I please.’
Melville laid his hand on the younger man’s shoulder.