"To behold for herself if Isotta d'Este be as fair as she is—to spy into her brother's treatment of his prisoners."
"Have you seen the lady, my lord?"
"I?—never," replied de Lana. "Nor do I greatly care to."
Giannotto made no reply; he felt unusually placid and content. He saw plainly enough that Valentine was outwitting her brother, and as he hated the Duke and admired his sister, he would help her with all his power as long as he ran no risks. Visconti had not left him in charge—and for asking no untimely questions, Valentine would reward him well.
With some excitement he awaited her return.
"She is a long time," said de Lana impatiently.
"She has her brother's daring," thought Giannotto. "And yet—she would hardly dare that—hardly."
The door of Isotta's prison was opened and Valentine came out, followed by her attendants—dark-cloaked figures keeping in the shadow. Adrian closed and bolted the door behind them as she slowly stepped down into the room.
"The prisoner is sick," said Valentine. "Not dangerously so, I hope; we would not have her die in my brother's absence. She has fallen asleep and must not be disturbed. Where is her woman?"
Luisa shuffled forward.