The Duke held out to him the paper that he had produced.
"You heard the question that I asked Messer del' Orca ?" he inquired.
"I heard, Illustrious," answered Miguel, with a bow.
"See that you obtain me an answer to it, as well as an account of the other matters that I have noted on this list--concerning the misappropriation of stores, the retention of taxes illicitly levied, and the wanton cruelty towards my good citizens of Cesena.

Put him to the question without delay, and record me his replies.

The implements are yonder." And with the same calm indifference which characterised his every word and action Cesare pointed to the torture, and turned to Madonna Paola, as though he gave the matter of Ramiro del' Orca and his misdeeds not another thought.
"Mercy, my lord," rang now the voice of Ramiro, laden with horrid fear.
"I will speak." "Then do so--to Don Miguel.

He will question you in my name." Again he turned to Madonna.

"Madonna Paola, may I conduct you hence?
Things may perhaps occur which it is not seemly your gentle eyes should witness.
Messer Biancomonte, attend us." Now, in spite of all that Ramiro had made me suffer, I should have been loath to have remained and witnessed his examination.