Wakkis replied: "We shall have to call another convention of the electors, I suppose."
Another councilor, Mannfrith, spoke up: "Apparently our young friend is right, much as I hate to take advice from outsiders. When and where shall the convention be?"
There were a lot of uncertain throaty noises from the Goths. Padway said: "If my lords please, I have a suggestion. Our new civil capital is to be at Florence, and what more fitting way of inaugurating it is there than holding our election there?"
There was more growling, but nobody produced a better idea. Padway knew perfectly well that they didn't like following his directions, but that, on the other hand, they were glad to shirk thought and responsibility themselves.
Wakkis said: "We shall have to give time for the messages to go out, and for the electors to reach Florence—"
Just then Urias came in. Padway took him aside and whispered: "What did she say?"
"She says she will."
"When?"
"Oh, in about ten days, I think. It don't look very nice so soon after my uncle's death."
"Never mind that. It's now or never."