Now I would lay a heavy wager
that the Florentine will return without having finished the
business.
A Senator.--And _I_ would engage, on the contrary, that there is but
one man in Venice who is capable of seizing Abellino, and that THAT
man is Flodoardo of Florence. The moment that I became acquainted
with him, I prophesied that one day or other he would play a
brilliant part in the annals of history.
Another Senator.--I think with you, signor. Never was I so struck
with a man at first sight as I was with Flodoardo.
Contarino.--A thousand sequins on Abellino's not being taken, unless
death should have taken him first.
The First Senator.--A thousand sequins on Flodoardo seizing him -
Andreas.--And delivering him up to me, either alive or dead.
Contarino.--Illustrious signors, you are witnesses of the wager. My
Lord Vitalba, there is my hand on it. A thousand sequins!
The Senator.--Done.
Contarino (smiling).--Many thanks for your gold, signor. I look on
it as already in my purse. Flodoardo is a clever gentleman, no
doubt, yet I would advise him to take good care of himself; for he
will find that Abellino knows a trick or two, or I am much mistaken.
Gonzaga.--May I request your Highness to inform me whether Flodoardo
is attended by the sbirri?
Andreas.--No, he is alone. Near four-and-twenty hours have elapsed
since he set out in pursuit of the bravo.
Gonzaga (to Contarino, with a smile of triumph).
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