posing the minds
of the patricians in your favor. It will be well to make your attachment
to the state be observed by further service near the ambassador. You are
known to have his esteem, and counsel coming from such a quarter will
enter deeply into his mind. It should also quicken the exertions of so
benevolent and generous a young spirit, to know that in serving his
country, he also aids the cause of humanity."

Don Camillo did not appear to be strongly impressed with the justice of
the latter remark. He bowed, however, in courtesy to his companion's
opinion.

"It is pleasant, Signore, to be thus persuaded," he answered; "my
kinsman of Castile is a man to hear reason, let it come from what
quarter it may. Though he meets my arguments with some allusions to the
declining power of the Republic, I do not see less of deep respect for
the influence of a state, that hath long made itself remarkable by its
energy and will."

"Venice is no longer what the City of the Isles hath been, Signer Duca;
still she is not powerless. The wings of our lion are a little clipped,
but his leap is still far, and his teeth dangerous. If the new-made
prince would have his ducal coronet sit easily on his brow, he would do
well to secure the esteem of his nearest neighbors."

"This is obviously true, and little that my influence can do towards
effecting the object, shall be wanting. And now, may I entreat of your
friendship, advice as to the manner of further urging my own
long-neglected claims?"

"You will do well, Don Camillo, to remind the senators of your presence,
by frequent observance of the courtesies due to their rank and yours."

"This do I never neglect, as seemly both in my station and my object."

"The judges should not be forgotten, young man, for it is wise to
remember that justice hath ever an ear for solicitation."

"None can be more assiduous in the duty, nor is it common to see a
suppliant so mindful of those whom he troubleth, by more substantial
proofs of respect."

"But chiefly should we be particular to earn the senate's esteem. No act
of service to the state is overlooked by that body, and the smallest
good deed finds its way into the recesses of the two councils."

"Would I could have communication with those reverend fathers! I think
the justice of my claim would speedily work out its own right."

"That were impossible!" gravely returned the senator. "Those august
bodies are secret, that their majesty may