In either
case, we shall at least obtain quiet. Necessity, with her whip of
serpents, has driven us to the very highest point of her rock,
whence we must save ourselves by some act of extraordinary daring,
or be precipitated on the opposite side into the abyss of shame and
eternal oblivion. The next point to be considered is, how we may
best obtain supplies for our necessary expenses, and induce others
to join with us in our plans. For this purpose we must use every
artifice to secure in our interests the courtesans of the greatest
celebrity in Venice. What WE should be unable to effect by every
power of persuasion, banditti by their daggers, and princes by their
treasuries, can one of those Phrynes accomplish with a single look.
Where the terrors of the scaffold are without effect, and the
exhortations of the priests are heard with coldness, a wanton look
and a tender promise often perform wonders. The bell which sounded
the hour of assignation has often rang the knell of the most sacred
principles and most steadfast resolutions. But should you either
fail to gain the mastery over the minds of these women, or fear to
be yourselves entangled in the nets which you wish to spread for
others, in these cases you must have recourse to the holy father
confessors. Flatter the pride of these insolent friars; paint for
them upon the blank leaf of futurity bishops' mitres, patriarchal
missions, the hats of cardinals, and the keys of St.
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