Jacopo regarded the scene like one accustomed to its effect, though with evident reverence and awe; but the impression on Antonio was too manifest to be lost.

It is probable that the long pause which followed his introduction was intended to produce, and to note this effect, for keen eyes were intently watching his countenance during its continuance.
"Thou art called Antonio of the Lagunes ?" demanded one of the secretaries near the table, when a sign had been secretly made from the crimson member of that fearful tribunal to proceed.
"A poor fisherman, eccellenza, who owes much to blessed Saint Antonio of the Miraculous Draught." "And thou hast a son who bears thine own name, and who follows the same pursuit ?" "It is the duty of a Christian to submit to the will of God! My boy has been dead twelve years, come the day when the Republic's galleys chased the infidel from Corfu to Candia.

He was slain, noble Signore, with many others of his calling, in that bloody fight." There was a movement of surprise among the clerks, who whispered together, and appeared to examine the papers in their hands with some haste and confusion.

Glances were sent back at the judges, who sate motionless, wrapped in the impenetrable mystery of their functions.

A secret sign, however, soon caused the armed attendants of the place to lead Antonio and his companion from the room.
"Here is some inadvertency!" said a stern voice, from one of the masked Three, so soon as the fall of the footsteps of those who retired was no longer audible.