As he drew back into the shadow to make some farther plan, the Count of Tripoli, with Rizzo di Marin, Chief of Council, came through, from the first court, followed by one or two mounted nobles, questioning the sentry as to whether anyone had passed that way, and he heard the man give his name.
"Sua Eccellenza, Messer Andrea Cornaro."
The Count of Tripoli repeated this answer, with an accent of surprise.
"He gave the password?" he questioned, sternly.
"Eccellenza, si—come sempre."
Andrea Cornaro, to whom fear was unknown, thinking himself called, immediately responded, coming forward into the light.
"I have somewhat to discuss with thee," Rizzo said nonchalantly. "Wilt have a mount? We will go forth upon the ramparts and see whether all be in order."
"I have but left my horse," Cornaro answered, calling the animal to him with a motion of his hand, "but I would first know of this tumult." He kept his hand upon the bridle and remained standing, while he looked searchingly from Rizzo to Tripoli, the Governor of Famagosta.
"What is this tumult?" he repeated angrily, seeing them not quick to answer.
"Nay, Friend, how knowest thou not? being of the Council—as we:" Rizzo answered with a hint of provocation in his tone. "It is but some difference of the soldiers as to rations and pay: it threatened mutiny and had to be met. It will be put down. Mount then, your Excellency."