CHAPTER X.
"We shall not spend a large expense of time, Before we reckon with your several loves, And make us even with you." MACBETH.
When the three gondolas reached the side of the Bucentaur, the fisherman hung back, as if he distrusted his right to intrude himself into the presence of the senate.

He was, however, commanded to ascend, and signs were made for his two companions to follow.
The nobles, clad in their attire of office, formed a long and imposing lane from the gangway to the stern, where the titular sovereign of that still more titular Republic was placed, in the centre of the high officers of state, gorgeous and grave in borrowed guise and natural qualities.
"Approach," said the Prince, mildly, observing that the old and half-naked man that led the victors hesitated to advance.

"Thou art the conqueror, fisherman, and to thy hands must I consign the prize." Antonio bent his knee to the deck, and bowed his head lowly ere he obeyed.

Then taking courage, he drew nearer to the person of the Doge, where he stood with a bewildered eye and rebuked mien, waiting the further pleasure of his superiors.

The aged Prince paused for stillness to succeed the slight movements created by curiosity.