e." Early in 1478 Sixtus had
preconised him Cardinal of San Giorgio, and added the honour of Legate
for Archbishop Salviati's induction to that See--the richest, by the
way, in all Italy.

The boy Cardinal, in April, was directed, by Sixtus, to make a progress
to Imola on a visit to his uncle and aunt, and to take Florence on his
way, for the purpose of paying his respects to Lorenzo. There was, of
course, much more in this apparently innocent proceeding than appeared
at first view. Francesco de' Pazzi at once obtained Cavaliere Giacopo's
permission to offer the hospitality of his villa to his youthful
eminence and his suite.

Montesicco was ordered to furnish an escort of cavalry in the name of
the Pope--"men who were perfectly trustworthy and prepared to carry out
whatever commands they received."

After the cavalcade had set forth, Francesco sent a message to Lorenzo
de' Medici, suggesting that it might be agreeable to all parties if he
could see his way to entertain the Cardinal. Both he and the Archbishop,
who was in the company of the Cardinal, knew very well that the
proposition would be cordially entertained by the hospitable Magnifico.

As they had anticipated, no sooner had the news reached Florence that
the distinguished visitors were approaching the city, than a dignified
deputation of _Signori_ set out to meet them, conveying a courteous
invitation to be Lorenzo's guests at Fiesole.

A splendid reception was followed by a noble entertainment, whereat all
the more notable dignitaries of the city and the principal members of
the Platonic Academy assisted. Among the guests of honour were
Archbishop Francesco de' Salviati, with the Ambassadors--Giovanni
Morino, representing Ferrante, King of Naples; Filippo Sagramoro, the
Duke of Milan; and Ercole di Bendio, the Duke of Ferrara. In special
attendance upon Lorenzo, and of ambassadorial rank, were the Cavalieri
Agnolo della Stufa, Luigi de' Guicciardini, Bernardo de' Buongirolami,
and Buongiano de' Gianfigliazzi, and others.

The conspirators were in a state of the highest expectation that
Montesicco and his lieutenant would have no difficulty in finding
opportunities to effect their dastardly purpose during the festivities.
They were doomed to disappointment, for at the last moment, and when the
banquet was in progress, it was remarked that Giuliano was absent--he
was indisposed and unable to attend the function!

* * * *