And scarce was that final question of hers flung at those knaves, when the answer came from one of them.

It was that same sturdy Lupone.
"I, for one, am for the Duke," said he, and his sword leapt from its scabbard.

"I draw my iron for Valentino.

Let every loyal man do likewise and seize this traitor." And with his sword he pointed at Ramiro.
In an instant three others bared their weapons and ranged themselves beside him.

The remaining two--of whom was Lucagnolo--folded their hands, manifesting by that impassivity that they were minded to take neither one side nor the other.
The carnifex paused in his labours of undressing me, and the affair promised to grow interesting.