It is because I do know him to be as he is, that I most reverence him,
great Doge. He has sold his time and his good name to the state, in
order to save his imprisoned father, and in that I see nothing to
frighten one he loves."

"This affair needs explanation, Carmelite. The girl has a heated fancy,
and she renders that obscure she should explain."

"Illustrious prince, she would say that the Republic was content to
grant the son the indulgence of visiting the captive, with some
encouragement of his release, on condition that the youth might serve
the police by bearing a bravo's reputation."

"And for this incredible tale, father, you have the word of a condemned,
criminal!"

"With the near view of death before his eyes. There are means of
rendering truth evident, familiar to those who are often near the dying
penitents, that are unknown to those of the world. In any case, Signore,
the matter is worthy of investigation."

"In that thou art right. Is the hour named for the execution?"

"With the morning light, prince."

"And the father?"

"Is dead."

"A prisoner, Carmelite!"

"A prisoner, Prince of Venice."

There was a pause.

"Hast thou heard of the death of one named Antonio?"

"Signore, yes. By the sacred nature of my holy office, do I affirm that
of this crime is Jacopo innocent! I shrived the fisherman."

The Doge turned away, for the truth began to dawn upon him, and the
flush which glowed on his aged cheek contained a confession that might
not be observed by every eye. He sought the glance of his companion, but
his own expression of human feeling was met by the disciplined features
of the other, as light is coldly repelled from polished stone.

"Highness!" added a tremulous voice.

"What would'st thou, child?"

"There is a God for the Republic, as well as for the gondolier! Your
Highness will turn this great crime from Venice?"

"Thou art of plain speech, girl!"

"The danger of Carlo has made me bold. You are much beloved by the
people, and none speak of you, that they do not speak of your goodness,
and of your desire to serve the poor. You are the root of a rich and
happy family, and you will not--nay, you cannot if you would, think it a
crime for a son to devote all to a father. You are our father, and we
have a right to come to you, even for mercy--but, Highness, I ask only
for justice."

"Justice is the motto of Venice."

"They who live in the high favor of Providence do not alway