who knew
the real cause of Antonio's death, he felt a humane and praiseworthy
desire to make sure that no foul play had been exercised towards the
victim.

"I have heard of this Antonio," said this person, who was called the
Senator Soranzo, and who was gifted by nature with feelings that, in any
other form of government, would have made him a philanthropist, "and of
his success in the regatta. Was it not said that Jacopo, the Bravo, was
his competitor?"

A low, meaning, and common murmur ran through the throng.

"A man of his reputed passions and ferocity may well have sought to
revenge defeat by violence!"

A second and a louder murmur denoted the effect this suggestion had
produced.

"Eccellenza, Jacopo deals in the stiletto!" observed the half-credulous
but still doubting fisherman.

"That is as may be necessary. A man of his art and character may have
recourse to other means to gratify his malice. Do you not agree with me,
Signore?"

The Senator Soranzo put this question, in perfect good faith, to the
unknown member of the secret council. The latter appeared struck with
the probability of the truth of his companion's conjecture, but
contented himself with a simple acknowledgment to that effect, by
bowing.

"Jacopo! Jacopo!" hoarsely repeated voice after voice in the
crowd--"Jacopo has done this! The best gondolier in Venice has been
beaten by an old fisherman, and nothing but blood could wipe out the
disgrace!"

"It shall be inquired into, my children, and strict justice done," said
the Doge, preparing to depart. "Officers, give money for masses, that
the soul of the unhappy man be not the sufferer. Reverend Carmelite, I
commend the body to thy care, and thou canst do no better service than
to pass the night in prayer by its side."

A thousand caps were waved in commendation of this gracious command, and
the whole throng stood in silent respect, as the prince, followed by his
retinue, retired as he had approached, through the long, vaulted gallery
above.

A secret order of the Inquisition prevented the appearance of the
Dalmatians.

A few minutes later and all was prepared. A bier and canopy were brought
out of the adjoining cathedral, and the corpse was placed upon the
former. Father Anselmo then headed the procession, which passed through
the principal gate of the palace into the square, chanting the usual
service. The Piazzetta and the piazza were still empty. Here and there,
indeed, a curious