"Yesterday morning. Had he not left too hastily even for speech, he would have made it public; doubtless he thought you would accept my word—and these proofs."
There was silence.
"Are you convinced, lords?" asked Valentine.
"I am," said Giannotto, bowing to hide the twinkle in his ugly eyes; and the others, each according to his fashion, murmured an assent.
"And now I will take upon me my brother's duties," continued Valentine. "For you, de Lana, I have no commands; only look well to the arming of the walls, let not my brother say we were idle in his absence; I would have the soldiers in readiness to guard against a surprise—and meanwhile I ask your company."
De Lana bowed.
"On a visit to Della Scala's wife. She is a priceless hostage, and ill would it suit with our safety even if aught befell her."
"You would visit her yourself, lady?"
"Aye, myself, since with me lies the power and so the responsibility, and I would not shirk it. Lords," she continued generally, "we can do little else but wait—only hold yourselves in readiness—for the Duke's sake and the honor and security of Milan!"
She put her hand on d'Orleans' arm again and left the room, followed by de Lana and Giannotto.