Only so much had her father--the
giver of the gift--and Marcantonio, on this day of honor to his
name--been able to obtain of the imperious Republic. There were rumors
afloat, questions were asked, and the body of nobles must bear witness
to the clemency of the State, who could be gracious in forgiving. If the
Lady of the Giustiniani might not have the custody of her child, it was
not that because of her transgressions they would refuse her any grace
or honor.

Meanwhile Giustinian Giustiniani, standing proudly erect among the
nobles of the Doge's suite, searched the crowd for further homage, and
wondered at the silence when the charming figure of the baby Marconino
danced in his father's arms--a very embodiment of life and glee.

It was over in a moment, and the crowd of smaller barges fell back in
disorder, for the Doge was passing through the gates of the arsenal; the
galleys were returning back by San Pietro in Castello, and that which
was to follow of the glories of the day was only for the great ones now
gathering behind that charmed gate, where the golden chair was waiting
in which the Serenissimo should make his royal progress. There was
nothing more for the people until the hour of the Ave Maria should call
the stately procession forth on its homeward way.

But the brilliant memories of this morning would gladden many a less
golden day--Viva San Marco! Their voluble tongues were suddenly
unloosed, and those who had been favored with near glimpses of the
heroes of the day became centres of animated discussion. Life was good
in Venice! "And thou, Nino, forget not that the Madonna hath been
'gentile' to thee! Thou shalt tell thy little ones, when thou art old,
that thou hast this day seen, with thine own eyes, the Marconino, who
hath given the great galley to the Republic!"

The banquet was over, and there was a stir among the Signoria when the
infant Giustinian was called for that he might receive the thanks of
the Republic for his princely gift; and a murmur of admiration circled
from lip to lip as the blooming child was brought into the banquet hall.
All eyes were now turned upon the Lady Marina, who had hitherto remained
surrounded by her household and inconspicuous among the group of noble
Venetian ladies who gave distinction to this festa.

It was Marcantonio who, with a tenderness that was pathetic and a touch
that was a caress, led her down from her place and folded the little
one's hand in hers. He