Bellarion the Fortunate

by Rafael Sabatini

'It is heartening to have such a man as you for company in such days.'

He took her in his arms, a masterful, irresistible fellow.

'With such a woman as you beside me, Valeria, I could conquer the world.'

A dry voice broke in upon that rapture: 'You might make a beginning by conquering Vercelli.'

Starting guiltily apart, they met the mocking eyes of Bellarion who entered. He came forward easily, as handsome in his way as Carmagnola, but cast in a finer, statelier mould. 'I should be grateful to you, Francesco, and so would her highness, if you would accomplish that. The world can wait until afterwards.'

And Carmagnola, to cover his confusion and Valeria's, plunged headlong into contention.

'I'd reduce Vercelli to-morrow if I had my way.'

'Who hinders you?'

'You do. There was that night attack ...'

'Oh, that!' said Bellarion. 'Do you bring that up again? Will you never take my word for anything, I wonder? It is foredoomed to failure.'