mass in the castle, and found that the priest who
officiated in the chapel had gone to St. Stephen's, and had taken with
him the sacred utensils. On this he desired the service to be performed
by the bishop of Como, who acquainted him with preventing circumstances.
Thus, almost compelled, he determined to go to the church; but before
his departure, caused his sons, Giovan Galeazzo and Ermes, to be brought
to him, whom he embraced and kissed several times, seeming reluctant to
part with them. He then left the castle, and, with the ambassadors
of Ferrara and Mantua on either hand, proceeded to St. Stephen's. The
conspirators, to avoid exciting suspicion, and to escape the cold, which
was very severe, had withdrawn to an apartment of the archpriest, who
was a friend of theirs, but hearing the duke's approach, they came into
the church, Giovanandrea and Girolamo placing themselves upon the
right hand of the entrance, and Carlo on the left. Those who led
the procession had already entered, and were followed by the duke,
surrounded by such a multitude as is usual on similar occasions. The
first attack was made by Lampognano and Girolamo, who, pretending to
clear the way for the prince, came close to him, and grasping their
daggers, which, being short and sharp, were concealed in the sleeves of
their vests, struck at him. Lampognano gave him two wounds, one in the
belly, the other in the throat. Girolamo struck him in the throat and
breast. Carlo Visconti, being nearer the door, and the duke having
passed, could not wound him in front: but with two strokes,
transpierced his shoulder and spine. These six wounds were inflicted
so instantaneously, that the duke had fallen before anyone was aware of
what had happened, and he expired, having only once ejaculated the
name of the Virgin, as if imploring her assistance. A great tumult
immediately ensued, several swords were drawn, and as often happens in
sudden emergencies, some fled from the church, and others ran toward the
scene of tumult, both without any definite motive or knowledge of what
had occurred. Those, however, who were nearest the duke and had seen
him slain, recognizing the murderers, pursued them. Giovanandrea,
endeavoring to make his way out of the church, proceeded among the
women, who being numerous, and according to their custom, seated upon
the ground, was prevented in his progress by their apparel, and being
overtaken, he was killed by a Moor, one of the duke's f