"I will repeat my words.

You have dragged me here before you by force, and, sitting there on the throne of Babbiano, you say: 'Prove that you have not conspired against me if you would save your head.'" A second he paused, and noted the puzzled look with which all regarded him.
"Is this a parable ?" sneered the uncomprehending Duke.
"You have said it," flashed back Francesco.

"A parable it is.

And if you consider it, does it not afford you proof enough ?" he asked, a note of triumph in his voice.

"Do not our relative positions irrefutably show the baselessness of this your charge?
Should I stand here and you sit there if what you allege against me were true ?" He laughed almost savagely, and his eyes flashed scornfully upon the Duke.