"It is not seemly that the inquisition of St.Mark should show this ignorance." "It touches merely the family of an obscure fisherman, illustrious Signore," returned the trembling dependant; "and it may be that his art would wish to deceive us in the opening interrogatories." "Thou art in error," interrupted another of the Three.

"The man is named Antonio Vecchio, and, as he sayeth, his only child died in the hot affair with the Ottoman.

He of whom there is question is a grandson, and still a boy." "The noble Signore is right!" returned the clerk--"In the hurry of affairs, we have misconceived a fact, which the wisdom of the council has been quick to rectify.

St.Mark is happy in having among his proudest and oldest names, senators who enter thus familiarly into the interests of his meanest children!" "Let the man be again introduced," resumed the judge, slightly bending his head to the compliment.

"These accidents are unavoidable in the press of affairs." The necessary order was given, and Antonio, with his companion constantly at his elbow, was brought once more into the presence.
"Thy son died in the service of the Republic, Antonio ?" demanded the secretary.
"Signore, he did.