of the citizens are transferred from the
government to the San Giorgio, on account of the tyranny of the
former, and the excellent regulations adopted by the latter. Hence also
originate the frequent changes of the republic, which is sometimes
under a citizen, and at other times governed by a stranger; for the
magistracy, and not the San Giorgio, changes the government. So when
the Fregosi and the Adorni were in opposition, as the government of the
republic was the prize for which they strove, the greater part of the
citizens withdrew and left it to the victor. The only interference of
the Bank of St. Giorgio is when one party has obtained a superiority
over the other, to bind the victor to the observance of its laws, which
up to this time have not been changed; for as it possesses arms, money,
and influence, they could not be altered without incurring the imminent
risk of a dangerous rebellion. This establishment presents an
instance of what in all the republics, either described or imagined
by philosophers, has never been thought of; exhibiting within the same
community, and among the same citizens, liberty and tyranny, integrity
and corruption, justice and injustice; for this establishment preserves
in the city many ancient and venerable customs; and should it happen (as
in time it easily may) that the San Giorgio should have possession of
the whole city, the republic will become more distinguished than that of
Venice.

Agostino Fregoso conceded Serezana to the San Giorgio, which readily
accepted it, undertook its defense, put a fleet to sea, and sent forces
to Pietra Santa to prevent all attempts of the Florentines, whose
camp was in the immediate vicinity. The Florentines found it would be
essentially necessary to gain possession of Pietra Santa, for without
it the acquisition of Serezana lost much of its value, being situated
between the latter place and Pisa; but they could not, consistently
with the treaty, besiege it, unless the people of Pietra Santa, or its
garrison, were to impede their acquisition of Serezana. To induce the
enemy to do this, the Florentines sent from Pisa to the camp a quantity
of provisions and military stores, accompanied by a very weak escort;
that the people of Pietra Santa might have little cause for fear, and by
the richness of the booty be tempted to the attack. The plan succeeded
according to their expectation; for the inhabitants of Pietra Santa,
attracted by the rich prize took po