f this distinguished favour; and if Count
Appiani will not wilfully misunderstand one of his most devoted
friends----

APPIANI.

Proceed, I pray, without more ceremony.

MARINELLI.

I will. The Prince is obliged to send an ambassador immediately to the
Duke of Massa respecting his marriage with the Princess his daughter.
He was long undetermined whom to appoint, till his choice at last has
fallen upon you, my lord.

APPIANI.

Upon me?

MARINELLI.

Yes--and if friendship may be allowed to boast, I was instrumental----

APPIANI.

Truly I am at a loss for thanks. I had long renounced the hope of being
noticed by the Prince.

MARINELLI.

I am sure he only waited for a proper opportunity, and if the present
mission be not sufficiently worthy of Count Appiani, I own my
friendship has been too precipitate.

APPIANI.

Friendship, friendship! every third word. With whom am I speaking? The
Marquis Marinelli's friendship I never dreamt of gaining.

MARINELLI.

I acknowledge my fault, Count Appiani, my unpardonable fault in wishing
to be your friend without your permission. But what of that? The favour
of his Highness, and the dignity he offers, remain the same. I do not
doubt you will accept them with pleasure.

APPIANI (_after some consideration_).

Undoubtedly.

MARINELLI.

Come, then, with me.

APPIANI.

Whither?

MARINELLI.

To the Prince's palace at Dosalo. All is ready. You must depart to-day.

APPIANI.

What say you? To-day?

MARINELLI.

Yes. Rather now than an hour hence. The business presses.

APPIANI.

Indeed! Then I am sorry I must decline the honour which the Prince
intended to confer upon me.

MARINELLI.

How?

APPIANI.

I cannot depart to-day,--nor to-morrow--nor the next day.

MARINELLI.

You are jesting, Count.

APPIANI.

With you?

MARINELLI.

Incomparable