"Antonio!" Piero called cautiously to the man who was rowing behind the
felze, "I have somewhat to say to thee; are there those within thy
vision who may hear our speech?"
"Padrone, no; but the time is short for speaking much, for we reach the
lock with another turn of the Brenta."
"May the blessed San Nicolo send sunshine to dazzle the jewels in the
eyes of Messer San Marco till we are safe beyond it and out of
Chioggia!" Piero exclaimed fervently. "And thou, Antonio, swear me again
thy faith--or swear it not, as thou wilt. But thou shalt choose this
moment whom thou wilt serve; and it shall go ill with thee if thou keep
not thy troth."
"By San Marco and San Teodoro," Antonio responded readily, crossing
himself devoutly as he spoke, "I swear to do thy bidding, Messer
Gastaldo."
"And thou wilt die for the people against the nobles if need should be?"
"If thou leadest, Gastaldo Grande."
"Hast thou a pouch beneath thy stiletto where thou mayest defend with
thy life what I shall give thee?"
Antonio displayed it silently.
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