Brunelleschi took it very quietly: he said nothing in reply, but secretly for many months, in the intervals of his architecture, worked at his own version, and then one day, when it was finished, invited Donatello to dinner, stopping at the Mercato Vecchio to get some eggs and other things.

These he gave Donatello to carry, and sent him on before him to the studio, where the crucifix was standing unveiled.

When Brunelleschi arrived he found the eggs scattered and broken on the floor and Donatello before his carving in an ecstasy of admiration.

"But what are we going to have for dinner ?" the host inquired.

"Dinner!" said Donatello; "I've had all the dinner I require.