For he felt that had he possessed the strength of Hercules, and the courage of Achilles, he would not in that instant have moved a step to Francesco's aid.

And as much he told her.
"Why should I, Madonna ?" he had returned coldly.

"Why should I raise a hand to help the man whom you prefer to me?
Why should I draw sword in the cause of this fortress ?" She looked at him with troubled eyes.

"What are you saying, my good Gonzaga ?" "Aye--your good Gonzaga!" he mocked her bitterly.

"Your lap-dog, your lute-thrummer; but not man enough to be your captain; not man enough to earn a thought that is kinder than any earned by Peppe or your hounds.
I may endanger my neck to serve you, to bring you hither to a place of safety from Gian Maria's persecution, and be cast aside for one who, it happens, has a little more knowledge of this coarse trade of arms.