great a matter, my boy!"

They broke down in each other's arms, clasping the sword between them.

The Senator's firm step resounded on the marble floor; they had scant
time to recover themselves; but his eyes fell at once upon the
magnificent goblet, and there was pleasure in his stern face.

"This, then, is of thy designing, Marcantonio," he exclaimed, as he
stooped to examine it in its case of satin and velvet. "A veritable
gift-piece! And already thou hast won the favor of the Senate, since it
hath been reported to them by our Chief of the Ten, who hath the
industries of Murano in charge, that at the exhibit given yestere'en a
goblet more sumptuous than that prepared for his Majesty of France was
of thy designing. The Secretary will bring thee this night a summons
from the Ten to appear before them on the morrow to receive their
congratulations, because of the inspiration thou hast given to our most
valued industry.

"It is a rare mark of favor that it hath been confided to me,"
Giustinian continued, still examining the goblet with pride, "since
custom doth require that one should withdraw from the sitting of the
Council when any matter touching his house is treated. But Morosini, by
grace of the Signoria, hath been with me for a moment, that there may be
no misgivings of fear upon this fête-day of our house. And to-night this
summons to favor shall be presented, to honor the youngest member of the
Consiglio. Marcantonio, I am proud of thee; the Ten will be here--every
one! And verily the goblet is beautiful. It shall be well displayed in
the great banquet hall."