"By San Marco and San Teodoro," Antonio responded readily, crossing himself devoutly as he spoke, "I swear to do thy bidding, Messer Gastaldo."
"And thou wilt die for the people against the nobles if need should be?"
"If thou leadest, Gastaldo Grande."
"Hast thou a pouch beneath thy stiletto where thou mayest defend with thy life what I shall give thee?"
Antonio displayed it silently.
"This for the need of the cause in thy hand," said Piero, passing him a purse of gold. "But gold is worthless to this token which shall win thee the hearing of the bancali, and the aid of every loyal son of San Nicolò, and shall be proof that thou bearest my orders and my trust."
The trust was great—the bancali were the governing board of the traghetti.
Antonio unfastened his doublet and secured the precious token under his belt.
"Command then, caro padrone."
"Slacken thy pace, for this may be our last speech together. Are those who follow true as thou?"