Checco paused again. An inkling of his meaning was coming to his hearers, but they dared not think he would say what was in all their minds.
'Then,' Checco went on, 'you re-imposed the taxes which you had taken off.'
'That is a lie!' interrupted Girolamo. 'They were imposed by the council.'
Checco shrugged his shoulders, smiling ironically.
'I remember quite well. You called a meeting of the Ancients, and showing them your necessities, suggested that they should re-impose the taxes.
'I forget if you reminded them that you could command, and that you were placed here by the Vicar of Christ on earth.
'And you forebore to let us hear the ring of trumpets and the tramp of soldiery in the square. Nor did you think so numerous a suite necessary for your dignity.'
He looked round at the soldiers, thoughtfully stroking his beard.
'Proceed!' said Girolamo, impatiently; he was beginning to get angry.
Checco, in talking, had recovered the assurance which at first seemed to fail him. He smiled politely at the Count's command, and said,—