There was
nothing more for the people until the hour of the Ave Maria should call
the stately procession forth on its homeward way.
But the brilliant memories of this morning would gladden many a less
golden day--Viva San Marco! Their voluble tongues were suddenly
unloosed, and those who had been favored with near glimpses of the
heroes of the day became centres of animated discussion. Life was good
in Venice! "And thou, Nino, forget not that the Madonna hath been
'gentile' to thee! Thou shalt tell thy little ones, when thou art old,
that thou hast this day seen, with thine own eyes, the Marconino, who
hath given the great galley to the Republic!"
The banquet was over, and there was a stir among the Signoria when the
infant Giustinian was called for that he might receive the thanks of
the Republic for his princely gift; and a murmur of admiration circled
from lip to lip as the blooming child was brought into the banquet hall.
All eyes were now turned upon the Lady Marina, who had hitherto remained
surrounded by her household and inconspicuous among the group of noble
Venetian ladies who gave distinction to this festa.
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