"And for my father--we must have courage!"



XI

The summons from the Ten had been presented with ceremony on the night
of the fête at Ca' Giustiniani, and Marcantonio was grateful for the
strong support of Paolo Cagliari's friendly presence, as they went
together to the Sala di Collegio in the Ducal Palace; for this seemed to
the young noble an opportunity, that might never come again, of
presenting his petition to ears not all unfavorable; and there was a
thrill of triumph in the thought that his maiden speech before this
august body should be his plea for Marina's admission to the favor of
the Signoria. Already fortune had been kind to him beyond his hopes,
and, with the daring of youth, he was resolved to claim the possible.
The Veronese alone knew of his intention, and as to his father--he could
only put him out of his thoughts. If the Senate listened to his petition
there would be no difficulties, but he would not weaken his courage by
any previous contest, unavailing as it must be.

Meanwhile there was the remembrance of the roses of the Lady
Laura--fragrant with her great renunciation.

The honor of this summons was reflected in the increased dignity of the
elder Giustinian, and in a tinge of urbanity new to him, as he parted
from Paolo Caghari and Marcantonio, who remained standing on the floor
of the hall, to take his seat among the senators in the seats running
around the chamber, as on the previous day, instead of the one
rightfully his own among the higher Council who were to pronounce the