But the _bravi_, unlike soldiery, were rarely employed in honorable business.

They formed a permanent element of treachery and violence within the social organism.
Not a little singular were the relations thus established.

The community of crime, involving common interests and common perils, established a peculiar bond between the noble and his _bravo_.

This was complexioned by a certain sense of 'honor rooted in dishonor,' and by a faint reflection from elder retainership.

The compact struck between landowner and bandit parodied that which drew feudal lord and wandering squire together.