But the praise of it should not be mine; it is rather to
the stabilimento which hath shown perfection in its workmanship. But
first to him, the master, who hath given it its crowning grace. I pray
you, let me share the unmerited honor of this commendation with Paolo
Cagliari, _detto Veronese_, without whom my little had been nothing!"
The chivalry and grace of the young noble elicited a murmur of
approbation, as he courteously indicated his friend.
The Veronese, to whom this _denouement_ was unexpected, and who had long
since been crowned with highest honors by the Republic, did not move
forward, but, acknowledging the tribute of his pupil with a genial
smile, he stood with folded arms, unembarrassed and commanding, scanning
the faces of the assembly, well pleased with the effect produced by the
words of Marcantonio, whom, at all hazards, he intended to befriend. He
realized that the atmosphere might never be so favorable.
"The crowning grace of that goblet, my Lords of Venice," he said boldly,
"is lent it by the face of the most beautiful maiden it hath ever been
my fortune to paint--than whom Venice hath none more charming.
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