ncess of Savoy. The retinue which accompanied the
sovereigns was gorgeous, and filled the people of Florence with
amazement; but their wonder was tenfold greater when Lorenzo displayed
still greater magnificence in their reception. Macchiavelli has
attributed the vast increase in the luxurious habits of the citizens to
this splendid hospitality.

Another remarkable demonstration was that which was made in 1471 upon
the occasion of the succession of Cardinal Francesco delle Rovere to the
Papal throne as Sixtus IV. Lorenzo, in person, headed the special
embassy which was despatched from Florence to congratulate the new
pontiff. The other principal members were Domenico de' Martelli, Agnolo
della Stufa, Bongianio de' Gianfigliazzi, and Donato de' Acciaiuolo.
Whilst the mission and its wealth of offerings were received graciously
by the Roman Court, Sixtus by no means extended a cordial welcome to
Lorenzo. The request which he made for the bestowal of a Cardinal's hat
upon his brother, Giuliano, was refused somewhat brusquely, although, to
be sure, the Pope did agree to the transfer of the custody of the
finances of the Curia to the Medici bank, through the intervention of
Messer Giovanni de' Tornabuoni--Lorenzo's uncle, a resident in Rome.

Lorenzo appears to have made, however, rather a favourable impression
upon Sixtus, for he entered into negotiations concerning the sale of the
costly jewels which had been collected by Pope Paul II. In the end
Lorenzo purchased the cabinet and its contents, and made thereby a very
excellent bargain.

During his sojourn in the Eternal City, Lorenzo acquired a number of
precious antiques, rare manuscripts, and valuable works of art. Sixtus,
noting his artistic tastes, sent him many handsome gifts, and promised,
at his solicitation, to prevent the destruction of ancient buildings and
monuments. They parted apparently excellent friends.

Giuliano's _Giostra_ was even more brilliant than that of Lorenzo, six
years before. It was celebrated in honour of "La bella Simonetta," with
whom the impressionable young prince became daily more and more madly in
love. Whether his infatuation went at all beyond the bounds of Platonic
affection is doubtful. His lovely _innamorata_ was the wife of his best
friend, and his honour went for much in the loyal estimation of
Giuliano. Besides this, his good mother's influence in the cause of
virtue and modesty was all-powerful with both her sons.

Strange t