But when they have been tried and they have failed, decapitate them.

Medole looks upon revolution as a description of conjuring trick.

He shuffles cards and arranges them for a solemn performance, but he refuses to cut them if you look too serious or I look too eager; for that gives him a suspicion that you know what is going to turn up; and his object is above all things to produce a surprise.' 'You are both of you unjust to Count Medole,' said the countess.

'He imperils more than all of you.' 'Magnificent estates, it is true; but of head or of heart not quite so much as some of us,' said Luciano, stroking his thick black pendent moustache and chin-tuft.

'Ah, pardon me; yes! he does imperil a finer cock's comb.
'When he sinks, and his vanity is cut in two, Medole will bleed so as to flood his Lombard flats.