He shall instruct thee where to meet this night some brave hearts;--thou art worthy to be ranked amongst them.

Thou wilt not fail!" "By the holy Stairs! I will count every minute till then," said the smith, his swarthy face lighted with pride at the confidence shown him.
"Meanwhile, watch all your neighbours; let no man flag or grow faint-hearted,--none of thy friends must be branded as a traitor!" "I will cut his throat, were he my own mother's son, if I find one pledged man flinch!" said the fierce smith.
"Ha, ha!" rejoined Rienzi, with that strange laugh which belonged to him; "a miracle! a miracle! The Picture speaks now!" It was already nearly dusk when Rienzi left the Capitol.

The broad space before its walls was empty and deserted, and wrapping his mantle closely round him, he walked musingly on.
"I have almost climbed the height," thought he, "and now the precipice yawns before me.

If I fail, what a fall! The last hope of my country falls with me.

Never will a noble rise against the nobles.