As Simon told the podesta what he knew of the planned Filippeschi assault on the contessa's palace, d'Ucello leaned back in a tall chair that seemed too big for him, his eyes distant, the corners of his mouth turned down under his thin mustache.
When Simon finished, d'Ucello asked, "Are Cardinal Ugolini or any of his guests involved in this?"
The very question I asked Sordello. Interesting that the podesta shares my suspicions.
"The person who warned me said they were not."
D'Ucello peered at him. "And who warned you?"
"I would rather not say. I have an informant in Cardinal Ugolini's household."
"Really? Good for you." The podesta gave him a look of amused respect that kindled a warm glow of pride in him. "Well, Your Signory, if there is a battle between the Monaldeschi and the Filippeschi, I can do nothing about it."
Simon was swept by strange mixed feelings. He was ready to do almost anything to prevent the coming battle. But in the midst of his despair at d'Ucello's refusal to help, he kept seeing himself in armor rallying his men on the Monaldeschi battlements.
But he had to try to persuade d'Ucello to help. He could not leave without having done his best.
"Is it not your duty to keep the peace in Orvieto?"