Yet now--she
herself hath spoken?"
He looked from one to the other questioningly.
"There are no secrets between us," Girolamo answered with dignity, while
weighing some words that should welcome his daughter's suitor with
discretion and reserve.
But the maiden broke in timidly: "And he is not angry, Marco mio!"
"Nay, my favor is for him who truly honors my daughter and proves
himself worthy; for her happiness is dear to me. But the difficulties
are great, as she herself hath told me."
"A little time and there shall be none!" cried Marcantonio, joyously.
"For to-day, when first I have taken my seat in the Council, not more
solemnly have I sworn allegiance to the Republic than I would pray
Messer Magagnati to bear me witness that Marina--and none other--will I
wed!"
"Give him thy hand, my daughter, for thy face confesseth thee; and
to-day his lady should grant him so much grace."
"Yet, Marco--for thy sake--I make no vows to thee. Only this will I tell
thee," she added, in a voice that was very soft and low, as he sealed
his lover's vow on her fluttering hand.
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