So the rival faction of the Castellani
bore marvelous testimony to his mastery when they went over in
surprising numbers from along the _Giudecca_, and underwent the strange
ceremonial of baptism into the opposition party.
Yet when the rival factions of the people had thus conspired to make him
their chief it was Marina who had alone induced him to accept the honor.
To all his objections her answer had been ready:
"Nay, Piero, it is meet for thee; they need one strong and brave, of
whom they stand in dread, who knoweth their ways--"
"As much bad as good," Piero had interposed frankly, and not without
asseverations well known to gondoliers.
"It is well said," she had answered, with the comprehension born of her
intimate knowledge of the class; "and to keep them in order--verily,
none but thou canst do it."
Piero gave an expressive shrug, having had enough of compliment. "_En
avanti--c'e altro_!" he said, laughing. "The taxes are heavy, and their
Excellencies the tax-gatherers have less patience than the poor
gondoliers bring of _zecchini_ to the purse of the Nicolotti.
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